Clinical and Biochemical Assessment of Eimeria Infection in Goats at Sohag Governorate

Eimeriosis is an important enteric disease caused by a protozoon named Eimeria that affects a wide range of animal species. Specifically in small ruminants, this parasite has global economic importance in young animals, particularly those reared in high densities. This study aimed to investigate Eimeria infection in goats. One hundred (100) goats of the local breed have been surveyed. Fecal and blood samples were collected from each animal. Fecal samples were examined microscopically after applying the standard fecal flotation technique. Herein, we detected about 63% Eimeria spp. infection among goats in Sohag governorate at Southern Egypt. In addition, the clinical manifestation of Eimeriosis in infected goats was recorded. Liver enzymes, blood proteins including total protein and albumin, and calcium levels were measured by spectrophotometer in sera of infected goats. Results indicated an elevation of ALT and AST enzymes in sera of infected male kids and pregnant goats. This study highlights the importance of the altered biochemical profile as an indicator of the possible liver dysfunction resulting from Eimeria infection in goats. The overall findings reflect significant environmental contamination that continues to pose hazards on animal health and represent a major challenge for small ruminant production under the current raising conditions in Sohag villages.