Comparison of indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) and coprological diagnosis of schistosomosis in cows and buffaloes

Schistosomosis is a disease of veterinary and medical importance caused by Schistosoma spp is characterized by frequent diarrhea with blood and mucous, weight loss and weakness in animals and causes significant morbidity, mortality and economic loss in cattle population. The study was designed to analyze/detect the schistosoma spp by coprological and serological examination (IHA) in cows and buffaloes of different areas of Punjab, Pakistan (Lahore, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala and Sialkot) from March 2007- February 2008. Both the techniques (coprological and serological examination (IHA) for Schistosomosis in cows and buffaloes were compared. Overall prevelance of Schistosomosis in cows and buffaloes was noted 14.0% and 13.6% by coprological examination and 17% and 16.3% by indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA), respectively. Statistical analysis showed non-significant difference in indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) and fecal examination. Similarly month, area, age and sex wise seroprevalence of Schistosomosis was noted higher by IHA test than coprological examination in cows and buffaloes. Sensitivity (%) and specificity (%) of IHA test was noted 100% and >97.0%, respectively. The study reveals that Schistosomosis is prevalent in the study areas and needed proper preventive measure to minimize its prevalence. Besides that it is found that IHA is a good diagnostic tool for detection of Schistosomosis.