Evaluation of Fasciola hepatica Infections in Cattle in Northeastern Algeria and the Effects on Both Enzyme and Hepatic Damage, Confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy.

Purpose: The aim of our study is to establish the presence of Fasciola hepatica on farms in northeastern Algeria.

Methods: 143 blood and coprological samples of 15 males and 128 females of different breeds and ages were analysed.

Results: Our study indicates a heterogeneous level of the anti-f2 antibodies to Fasciola hepatica in response to the infection. The overall seroprevalence was about 22.37%, and 9 out of 13 investigated farms were infected, with rates varying from 5.88% to 70%. To explain the intrinsic variability of the infection, we identified age, sex and breed as potential risk factors. Based on this, we collected information about their relevance. There was a significant difference for age (p = 0.018) and coprology (p < 0.0001). Independently, sex and breed had no impact on the infection, although males were more infected (27%) than females (22%). Of the five investigated breeds, Holstein cattle (31.11%) were most affected, followed by Montbeliard (20.27%) and crossed breed (13.64%). Multivariate comparisons showed that the presence of faecal eggs reflects the active infectious status of cattle (p < 0.0001), while age (p = 0.011) and sex (p = 0.040) significantly impact the chance of acquiring the infection. To evaluate liver parenchyma integrity and its functionality, hepatic enzymes were examined and showed relatively low levels of aminotransferases, excluding cytolisis. Although sensitive to distomatosis, γGT and PAL values were inconsistent with the infection rate. The relatively high levels of proteins and albumin eliminate hepatic insufficiency.

Conclusion: Our results suggest a chronic fasciolosis, confirmed by histology and SEM.