Abstract:
Outbreaks of acute and subacute fasciolosis are reported in sheep in the household of village Ciuciulea, district Glodeni, in the household of village Chetiris, district Falesti the Republic of Moldova, in areas used for irrigated rice cultivation, which are subject to frequent flooding. Two outbreaks occurred mid-winter during July and August, and six occurred during spring and early summer. Morbidity ranged from 4,9 to 17,49 %, and mortality ranged from 0,88 to 5,32 %. Clinical signs included weight loss, mucosal pallor, apathy, depression, muscle tremors, and drooling; these were followed by death within approximately 24 h. Some sheep were found dead. Gross lesions were characterized by an irregular liver capsule with fibrin deposition and hemorrhages. The liver parenchyma contained hemorrhagic tracts or irregular clear areas alternated with dark hemorrhagic areas. Histologically, hemorrhagic dark redtracts of necrotic liver parenchyma and an inflammatory infiltrate were noted; these lesions coincided with the presence of immature flukes. Langhans-type giant cells, fibrous tissue, and bile duct cell proliferation were observed in subacute cases. Chronic fasciolosis is a well-known disease to farmers in the household of village Ciuciulea, district Glodeni, in the household of village Chetiris, district Falesti the Republic of Moldova; nevertheless, acute and subacute fasciolosis, which are more difficult to diagnose and treat, may cause important economic losses.
