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Current IssueEditorial BoardOnline First ArticlesArchive

Full Research Article

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Haemato-biochemical Alterations Associated with Naturally Occurring Cryptosporidium Spp. Infection in Goats

V
Vijay Kumar Mishra1
S
Shailendra Singh1,*
S
Shailesh Kumar Patel1
S
Swatantra Kumar Singh2
A
Alok Kumar Singh3
D
Dharmendra Kumar4
N
Neeraj Shrivastava5
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
2Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
3Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
4Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
5Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.

ABSTRACT

Background: Cryptosporidium spp. infection is one of the most common problems that occurs in kids under first month of life.The prevalence of Cryptosporidium may vary from farm to farm and region to region, depending upon herd size and animal husbandry practices.In India, although cryptosporidiosis had been reported in goat kids but Cryptosporidium spp. infection, risk factors and haematobiochemical alterations in goats  of Madhya Pradesh are least known.

Methods: A total of 290 goats d”12 month of age belonging to unorganized goatry farms, situated in and around Rewa district of the Madhya Pradesh were attended and rectal contents were collected in 5 ml sterile screw capped plastic cryo vials during March 2023 to April 2024. The samples were screened for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in the faecal smear by modified Ziehl-Neelsen (mZN) method at Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. To determine the haemato-biochemical parameters, 5 ml of blood samples were collected in aseptic condition from goats included in the study.

Results: Out of 290 samples, twenty six (8.96%, 26/290) cases were tested positive for the Cryptosporidium oocysts. The highest prevalence was observed in kids below 1 month of age (14.6%). The Prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. was found higher in female goats (10.20 %) than male. The prevalence was found highest in goats belonged to dam of first parity (14.28%). Haematological observations in Cryptosporidium infected goats showed significantly (p<0.05) lowered haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and lymphocyte percentage but significantly higher total leukocyte count, neutrophil and eosinophil percentage than the healthy goats. Biochemical studies revealed significant reduction in total serum protein, albumin and globulin values in the infected goats.

INTRODUCTION

The goat population in India is estimated around 148.88 million out of which 11.6 million present in Madhya Pradesh (Livestock census, 2019). The Goat rearing is an easy, less expensive, less laborious and highly profitable business. Goat rearing has emerged as an important component of a mixed farming system (Kumar, 2007). Unfortunately, the enormous number of goat population die due to digestive and respiratory tract affections at the early stage of their lives, resulting greater economic burden on animal husbandry. There are several pathogens like E.coli, Salmonella spp., Clostridium spp., Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium spp. are main organism responsible for causing diarrhoea in goats. Cryptosporidiosis in small and large ruminants is considered as a major cause of infection in humans, due to the dissemination of oocytes in the environment (Squire et al., 2017). The Cryptosporidium parvum infection is one of the most common threat that occur in lamb, kids and calves in the first month of life (Delafosse et al., 2006; Ceballos et al., 2009; Kabu et al., 2023). Cryptosporidiosis causes decline in productivity, retarded growth, decreased feed efficiency, delayed maturity, loss of fertility and overall financial loss in the form of treatment of ailing animals (Paraud and Chartier, 2012). Transmission is mainly by ingestion of sporulated oocytes through contaminated feed and water. Cross infection occurs between domestic and laboratory animals and man (Mallinath et al., 2009). Cryptosporidium may possess a potential public health problem due to infective oocysts in the environment (Fayer and Xiao, 2008). It causes self-limited watery diarrhoea in immunocompetent animals (Caccio et al., 2005) but has more sever effects on immunocompromised animals (Chen et al., 2005). The insufficient colostrum feeding in kids and contamination of kidding areas has been associated with Cryptosporidium infection (Noordeen et al., 2000; Sevinc et al., 2005). However, the risk factors concerned with cryptosporidiosis in goats have not been well described. Consequently, the objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of cryptosporidiosis in goats in the region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Collection of samples
 
Faecal samples and rectal contents were collected from 290 goats below 12 month of age with or without diarrhoea from unorganized goat farms located in and around Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh. Approximately, 5gm of rectal contents of goats were collected in 5 ml sterile screw capped plastic cryovials after cleaning of the anal area and beating by rectal stimulation with the index finger during March 2023 to April 2024. The collected samples were transported on ice packs to the Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. Collected samples were categorized on the basis of age, sex, season (monsoon, post monsoon, summer and winter) and parity (first, second, third and fourth and above) of dam (Table 1).

Table: 1: Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in goats.


 
Screening of faecal samples for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts
 
The smears were prepared directly from the faecal samples on clean glass slides and air dried. Then smears was fix in methanol for 3 minutes and were stained with carbol fuchsin for 15-20 minutes, followed by rinsing in tap water, then decolorized in acid alcohol (1% HCl in methanol) for 20 seconds and rinsing in tap water thereafter. Finally, the smears were counter stained with methylene blue for 1 minute, followed by rinsing and air drying (Henriksen and Pohlenz, 1981). Smears were examined using 100 X objectives under the light microscope.
 
Collection of blood sample
 
Blood sample (2 ml with anticoagulant) was collected aseptically from jugular vein of goats of different age groups which were positive for cryptosporidium infection but free from other gastro-intestinal parasites on faecal sample examination. For analysis of the biochemical parameters, 5 ml of blood samples were collected without anticoagulant in vacutainer tubes. The vacutainer tubes were kept in slanting position at room temperature for clotting and then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 5 min. The separated serum samples were collected in screw capped plastic vials and stored at -20oC for further investigation.  For comparison of haematobiochemical values ten healthy goats, which were free from Cryptosporidium oocysts and other gastro-intestinal parasites kept as control group. The samples were analyzed on the same day for haematological parameters like Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC, million/cmm), Total Leucocyte Count (TLC, cells/cmm), Differential Leukocyte Count (DLC, %), Hemoglobin (Hb, g/dl), Packed Cell Volume (PCV, %) and erythrocyte indices  using hamoglobinometer, hemocytometer and blood smear examination (staining with Field stain A and B) for differential leukocyte count. Biochemical parameter like albumin, globulin, total protein and albumin globulin ratio were measured using semiautomatic biochemical analyzer.
 
Statistical analyses
 
Data generated was analyzed by using SPSS 15.00 for Windows (SPSS, 2012). The generated data was subjected to independent t test for analysis and statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Prevalence and risk factors
 
A total of twenty six (8.96%, 26/290) cases out of 290 feacal samples were tested positive for the Cryptosporidium oocysts on mZN screening (Table 1). Dark red, small, round or oval shaped oocysts were seen in feacal smear examinations of goats (Fig 1). Prevalence was higher in diarrhoeic goats (10.50%, 23/219) than non-diarrhoeic goats (4.22%, 3/71). As compare with present study Maurya et al. (2013) reported lower prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. in goats. Higher prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. reported by several other workers (Ahamed et al., 2015; Khursheed et al., 2018; Dixit et al., 2019). The lower prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in the present study could be due to the variation in the sample size screened and the type of diagnostic tests used. In the present study, only staining of faecal smear with mZN stain was used. Use of more sensitive tests like polymerase chain reaction may further increase the proportion of positive samples (Al-Robaiee and Al-Farwachi, 2013). The age-wise prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in 0-1 month of age (14.60%, 13/89) thereafter prevalence decreased with increasing age (Table 1). The same has been described by previous workers (Bejan et al., 2009; Ceballos et al., 2009; Ahamed et al., 2015; Khursheed et al., 2018; Shanmathi et al., 2019). The age has been found to be the greatest influencing factor in causing Cryptosporidium infections. Higher prevalence of cryptosporidium infection under one month of age may be due to underdeveloped immune system and lack of maternal antibody in kids (Paraud et al., 2014). Prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in female goats (10.20%, 15/147) than that of male (7.69%, 11/143). Higher prevalence in female goats in the present study were in agreement with the findings of Ahamed et al., (2015), Maurya et al., (2013), Akinkuotu et al. (2016), El-Shahawy (2016), Khan et al., (2018) and Shanmathi et al., (2019) in goats. Contrary to present study higher prevalence of cryptosporidium reported in male goats than female goats (Abare et al., 2019). Higher susceptibility of infections to female goats may be due to stress associated with pregnancy, parturition and lactation (Akinkuotu et al., 2014). This issue has been contradicted by others and stated that the prevalence of Cryptosporidium did not significantly relate to sex of animals (Rahman et al., 1985; Shobhamani, 2007; Venu et al., 2012). Season wise prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. was higher in monsoon season (16.83) as compared to other season. Same finding were reported by Singh et al., (2018) in calves. In addition, Khan et al. (2018) reported higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium in summer season. High temperature and humidity with frequent rains in the monsoon season support faster transmission of the oocysts from the infected to healthy animals (Khan et al., 2018; Jafari et al., 2012). Parity-wise prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in first parity (14.28%, 17/119) than it decreased with parity of dam. Similar observations were also recorded by Sharma and Joshi (2020) and Singh et al. (2018) in calves. First and second parity dam have significantly lower levels of immunoglobulins in their colostrum than higher parity dam and this is the reason for higher incidence of diarrhoea in new born animals during first parity (Logan et al., 1981; Svensson et al., 2003; Afshari et al., 2012). Since, cryptosporidium with other polymicrobial agents are the main agents of diarrhoea so their prevalence may be influenced by parity of dams (Millemann, 2009; Cho and Yoon, 2014; Meganck et al., 2015).

Fig 1: Dark red, small, round or oval smooth wall oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. (arrow) in direct faecal smear of goats stained by modified Zeil-Nelson staining method(100X).


 
Hemato-biochemical changes
 
Hemato-biochemical parameters were recorded in 26 goats, which were found positive for Cryptosporidium infection (Table 2 and 3). The average hemoglobin level were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in cryptosporidium infected group (10.51±0.10) as compared the control group (11.81±0.13). These findings were in accordance with Thakre et al. (2016) in calves and Aziz et al., (2021) in sheep. Decrease in hemoglobin concentration might be attributed to hemoconcentration and the loss of body fluid along with electrolytes in extreme diarrheic and dehydrated condition in goats. The mean packed cell volume (PCV) values were decreased (31.80±0.25) in case of infected goats but it was not significantly related to the control group (33.10± 0.45). Same findings were reported by Rekha et al. (2011) in calves and Aziz et al. (2021). The total erythrocyte count were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in infected group (11.68±0.52) as compared to the corresponding value of the control group (13.89±0.56).  Similar findings were observed by Thakre et al. (2016) in calves and Aziz et al. (2021) in sheep. The total erythrocyte count in cryptosporidium infected goats decreased due to dehydration and hemoconcen- tration caused by diarrhoea (Molina et al., 1994). The findings of present study that is decrease in hemoglobin, packed cell volume and total erythrocyte count were disagree with the findings of  Al-Doori (2018), Abdel-Saeed and Salem (2019) in cryptosporidium infection in rabbit and lambs respectively. They reported a significant increase in red blood cells, hemoglobin and packed cell volume. This difference may be due to the loss of epithelial cells of intestine and reduce absorptions from the villi, resulting diarrhoea, dehydration and anemia (Al-dujaily et al., 2017). Total leukocyte counts were significantly higher in (11.65±0.13) goats with cryptosporidiosis as comparison with healthy goats (7.86±0.12). These findings were in accordance with earlier workers (Thakre et al., 2016; Aziz et al., 2021). Contrary to the present findings Shobhamani et al. (2007) reported lower values of TLC in cryptosporidium infected calves. The infection with cryptosporidium or any other parasite may predispose to the animals for secondary bacterial invasions which lead to the increased total leukocyte counts. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in neutrophil counts in infected goats (46.50±0.45) as compared to control group (37.80±0.29) (Table 2). These findings were in agreement with Thakre et al., (2016) in calves. Intestinal inflammation and acute enteritis may be the cause of neutrophilia in the present study. There was a significant decrease in lymphocyte count in goats with cryptosporidiosis. These findings were accordance with the findings of Thakre et al. (2016) in calves. Contrary to the present findings Khan et al., (2020) reported increased lymphocyte count in cryptosporidium infected goats. Decreased lymphocyte count may be due to stress and depletion of lymphoid follicle. The values of eosinophil counts were significantly (P<0.05) higher (2.46±0.99) in infected goats than that of control group (1.40±0.16). The present finding was in agreement with Khan et al. (2020) in goats. The elevation of eosinophils in circulating blood is common in parasitic infections of intestines (Howard and Smith, 1999).

Table 2: Haematological parameters (Mean ± SE) in Cryptosporidium infected goats in Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh.



Table 3: Biochemical parameter (Mean ± SE) in Cryptosporidium infected goats.


       
The significant increase in eosinophil count may be due to body defense mechanism as eosinophls are potent inflammatory cells that play an integral role in defense mechanism against parasites. The mean value of MCH was significantly higher in infected group. These finding were in agreement with the findings of Thakre et al., (2016), who observed a significantly increased value of MCH in Cryptosporidium infection. Contrary to the present findings Darabus et al. (2009) reported reduction of MCH in cryptosporidium infected calves. Higher MCH value may be due to the dehydration and hemoconcentration arising from diarrhoea in Cryptosporidium infected goats. The mean value MCV and MCHC increased but not significantly related between Cryptosporidium infected group and control group.
       
There was a significant decrease value of albumin was observed in cryptosporidium infected group (2.75± 0.0.11) as compared to that of healthy animals (3.23±0.13g/dl) (Table 3). Same findings were reported by Khan et al. (2020) and Aziz et al. (2021). Albumin is a negative acute phase protein and its concentration decreases during inflammation of intestine (Hashemnia et al., 2014). The globulin value significantly decreased in cryptosporidium infected goat. The present finding was in agreement with Rekha et al. (2011) and Mokhbatly and Selim (2003). The values of total proteins significantly decrease in infected group (5.54±0.04 g/dl) than that of healthy animals (6.53± 0.08 g/dl). The findings of present study were in accordance with earlier workers (Molina et al., 1994; Shobhamani, 2005; Rekha et al., 2011; Khan et al., 2020; Aziz et al., 2021). The Albumin/globulin ratio were decrease in cryptospodium infected goats but it was not significantly related to the   healthy animals. Similar findings reported by Shobhamani (2005), Rekha et al. (2011) and Asati et al., (2008). The decrease in the albumin, globulin and total proteins may be due to the loss of above proteins in enteritis associated with cryptosporidium infection. Here, our findings revealed significant decrease in total erythrocyte count, PCV, hemoglobin, lymphocyte count, total protein, albumin and globulin levels whereas increase in neutrophil, eosinophil and total leukocyte count in Cryptosporidium infection.

CONCLUSION

From the present study it is evident that several predisposing factors like age of the animals, sex, season and parity of the dams might be contributing factors for the Cryptosporidium infection. It occurs more commonly in the neonatal kids, first parity dams and in monsoon season. Therefore, predisposing factors is one of the most important aspects, which should be kept in mind to minimize the Cryptosporidium infection. The infection with Cryptosporidium in goats had an effect on the hemato-biochemical parameters. There was a significant decrease in hemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, total protein, albumin, globulin and lymphocyte count and an increase in neutrophil, eosinophil and total leukocyte count in Cryptosporidium infected goats. 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The authors are highly thankful to the Dean, College of Veterinary Science and A.H. (NDVSU), Rewa, Madhya Pradesh for providing all necessary facilities and funding to carry out this research work.
 
Disclaimers
 
The views and conclusions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their affiliated institutions. The authors are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided, but do not accept any liability for any direct or indirect losses resulting from the use of this content.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The authors declare no competing interest.

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    Prevalence, Risk Factors and Haemato-biochemical Alterations Associated with Naturally Occurring Cryptosporidium Spp. Infection in Goats

    V
    Vijay Kumar Mishra1
    S
    Shailendra Singh1,*
    S
    Shailesh Kumar Patel1
    S
    Swatantra Kumar Singh2
    A
    Alok Kumar Singh3
    D
    Dharmendra Kumar4
    N
    Neeraj Shrivastava5
    1Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
    2Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
    3Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
    4Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.
    5Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Rewa-486 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.

    ABSTRACT

    Background: Cryptosporidium spp. infection is one of the most common problems that occurs in kids under first month of life.The prevalence of Cryptosporidium may vary from farm to farm and region to region, depending upon herd size and animal husbandry practices.In India, although cryptosporidiosis had been reported in goat kids but Cryptosporidium spp. infection, risk factors and haematobiochemical alterations in goats  of Madhya Pradesh are least known.

    Methods: A total of 290 goats d”12 month of age belonging to unorganized goatry farms, situated in and around Rewa district of the Madhya Pradesh were attended and rectal contents were collected in 5 ml sterile screw capped plastic cryo vials during March 2023 to April 2024. The samples were screened for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in the faecal smear by modified Ziehl-Neelsen (mZN) method at Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. To determine the haemato-biochemical parameters, 5 ml of blood samples were collected in aseptic condition from goats included in the study.

    Results: Out of 290 samples, twenty six (8.96%, 26/290) cases were tested positive for the Cryptosporidium oocysts. The highest prevalence was observed in kids below 1 month of age (14.6%). The Prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. was found higher in female goats (10.20 %) than male. The prevalence was found highest in goats belonged to dam of first parity (14.28%). Haematological observations in Cryptosporidium infected goats showed significantly (p<0.05) lowered haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and lymphocyte percentage but significantly higher total leukocyte count, neutrophil and eosinophil percentage than the healthy goats. Biochemical studies revealed significant reduction in total serum protein, albumin and globulin values in the infected goats.

    INTRODUCTION

    The goat population in India is estimated around 148.88 million out of which 11.6 million present in Madhya Pradesh (Livestock census, 2019). The Goat rearing is an easy, less expensive, less laborious and highly profitable business. Goat rearing has emerged as an important component of a mixed farming system (Kumar, 2007). Unfortunately, the enormous number of goat population die due to digestive and respiratory tract affections at the early stage of their lives, resulting greater economic burden on animal husbandry. There are several pathogens like E.coli, Salmonella spp., Clostridium spp., Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium spp. are main organism responsible for causing diarrhoea in goats. Cryptosporidiosis in small and large ruminants is considered as a major cause of infection in humans, due to the dissemination of oocytes in the environment (Squire et al., 2017). The Cryptosporidium parvum infection is one of the most common threat that occur in lamb, kids and calves in the first month of life (Delafosse et al., 2006; Ceballos et al., 2009; Kabu et al., 2023). Cryptosporidiosis causes decline in productivity, retarded growth, decreased feed efficiency, delayed maturity, loss of fertility and overall financial loss in the form of treatment of ailing animals (Paraud and Chartier, 2012). Transmission is mainly by ingestion of sporulated oocytes through contaminated feed and water. Cross infection occurs between domestic and laboratory animals and man (Mallinath et al., 2009). Cryptosporidium may possess a potential public health problem due to infective oocysts in the environment (Fayer and Xiao, 2008). It causes self-limited watery diarrhoea in immunocompetent animals (Caccio et al., 2005) but has more sever effects on immunocompromised animals (Chen et al., 2005). The insufficient colostrum feeding in kids and contamination of kidding areas has been associated with Cryptosporidium infection (Noordeen et al., 2000; Sevinc et al., 2005). However, the risk factors concerned with cryptosporidiosis in goats have not been well described. Consequently, the objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of cryptosporidiosis in goats in the region.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS

    Collection of samples
     
    Faecal samples and rectal contents were collected from 290 goats below 12 month of age with or without diarrhoea from unorganized goat farms located in and around Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh. Approximately, 5gm of rectal contents of goats were collected in 5 ml sterile screw capped plastic cryovials after cleaning of the anal area and beating by rectal stimulation with the index finger during March 2023 to April 2024. The collected samples were transported on ice packs to the Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. Collected samples were categorized on the basis of age, sex, season (monsoon, post monsoon, summer and winter) and parity (first, second, third and fourth and above) of dam (Table 1).

    Table: 1: Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in goats.


     
    Screening of faecal samples for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts
     
    The smears were prepared directly from the faecal samples on clean glass slides and air dried. Then smears was fix in methanol for 3 minutes and were stained with carbol fuchsin for 15-20 minutes, followed by rinsing in tap water, then decolorized in acid alcohol (1% HCl in methanol) for 20 seconds and rinsing in tap water thereafter. Finally, the smears were counter stained with methylene blue for 1 minute, followed by rinsing and air drying (Henriksen and Pohlenz, 1981). Smears were examined using 100 X objectives under the light microscope.
     
    Collection of blood sample
     
    Blood sample (2 ml with anticoagulant) was collected aseptically from jugular vein of goats of different age groups which were positive for cryptosporidium infection but free from other gastro-intestinal parasites on faecal sample examination. For analysis of the biochemical parameters, 5 ml of blood samples were collected without anticoagulant in vacutainer tubes. The vacutainer tubes were kept in slanting position at room temperature for clotting and then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 5 min. The separated serum samples were collected in screw capped plastic vials and stored at -20oC for further investigation.  For comparison of haematobiochemical values ten healthy goats, which were free from Cryptosporidium oocysts and other gastro-intestinal parasites kept as control group. The samples were analyzed on the same day for haematological parameters like Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC, million/cmm), Total Leucocyte Count (TLC, cells/cmm), Differential Leukocyte Count (DLC, %), Hemoglobin (Hb, g/dl), Packed Cell Volume (PCV, %) and erythrocyte indices  using hamoglobinometer, hemocytometer and blood smear examination (staining with Field stain A and B) for differential leukocyte count. Biochemical parameter like albumin, globulin, total protein and albumin globulin ratio were measured using semiautomatic biochemical analyzer.
     
    Statistical analyses
     
    Data generated was analyzed by using SPSS 15.00 for Windows (SPSS, 2012). The generated data was subjected to independent t test for analysis and statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

    RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

    Prevalence and risk factors
     
    A total of twenty six (8.96%, 26/290) cases out of 290 feacal samples were tested positive for the Cryptosporidium oocysts on mZN screening (Table 1). Dark red, small, round or oval shaped oocysts were seen in feacal smear examinations of goats (Fig 1). Prevalence was higher in diarrhoeic goats (10.50%, 23/219) than non-diarrhoeic goats (4.22%, 3/71). As compare with present study Maurya et al. (2013) reported lower prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. in goats. Higher prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. reported by several other workers (Ahamed et al., 2015; Khursheed et al., 2018; Dixit et al., 2019). The lower prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in the present study could be due to the variation in the sample size screened and the type of diagnostic tests used. In the present study, only staining of faecal smear with mZN stain was used. Use of more sensitive tests like polymerase chain reaction may further increase the proportion of positive samples (Al-Robaiee and Al-Farwachi, 2013). The age-wise prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in 0-1 month of age (14.60%, 13/89) thereafter prevalence decreased with increasing age (Table 1). The same has been described by previous workers (Bejan et al., 2009; Ceballos et al., 2009; Ahamed et al., 2015; Khursheed et al., 2018; Shanmathi et al., 2019). The age has been found to be the greatest influencing factor in causing Cryptosporidium infections. Higher prevalence of cryptosporidium infection under one month of age may be due to underdeveloped immune system and lack of maternal antibody in kids (Paraud et al., 2014). Prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in female goats (10.20%, 15/147) than that of male (7.69%, 11/143). Higher prevalence in female goats in the present study were in agreement with the findings of Ahamed et al., (2015), Maurya et al., (2013), Akinkuotu et al. (2016), El-Shahawy (2016), Khan et al., (2018) and Shanmathi et al., (2019) in goats. Contrary to present study higher prevalence of cryptosporidium reported in male goats than female goats (Abare et al., 2019). Higher susceptibility of infections to female goats may be due to stress associated with pregnancy, parturition and lactation (Akinkuotu et al., 2014). This issue has been contradicted by others and stated that the prevalence of Cryptosporidium did not significantly relate to sex of animals (Rahman et al., 1985; Shobhamani, 2007; Venu et al., 2012). Season wise prevalence of cryptosporidium spp. was higher in monsoon season (16.83) as compared to other season. Same finding were reported by Singh et al., (2018) in calves. In addition, Khan et al. (2018) reported higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium in summer season. High temperature and humidity with frequent rains in the monsoon season support faster transmission of the oocysts from the infected to healthy animals (Khan et al., 2018; Jafari et al., 2012). Parity-wise prevalence of cryptosporidium was higher in first parity (14.28%, 17/119) than it decreased with parity of dam. Similar observations were also recorded by Sharma and Joshi (2020) and Singh et al. (2018) in calves. First and second parity dam have significantly lower levels of immunoglobulins in their colostrum than higher parity dam and this is the reason for higher incidence of diarrhoea in new born animals during first parity (Logan et al., 1981; Svensson et al., 2003; Afshari et al., 2012). Since, cryptosporidium with other polymicrobial agents are the main agents of diarrhoea so their prevalence may be influenced by parity of dams (Millemann, 2009; Cho and Yoon, 2014; Meganck et al., 2015).

    Fig 1: Dark red, small, round or oval smooth wall oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. (arrow) in direct faecal smear of goats stained by modified Zeil-Nelson staining method(100X).


     
    Hemato-biochemical changes
     
    Hemato-biochemical parameters were recorded in 26 goats, which were found positive for Cryptosporidium infection (Table 2 and 3). The average hemoglobin level were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in cryptosporidium infected group (10.51±0.10) as compared the control group (11.81±0.13). These findings were in accordance with Thakre et al. (2016) in calves and Aziz et al., (2021) in sheep. Decrease in hemoglobin concentration might be attributed to hemoconcentration and the loss of body fluid along with electrolytes in extreme diarrheic and dehydrated condition in goats. The mean packed cell volume (PCV) values were decreased (31.80±0.25) in case of infected goats but it was not significantly related to the control group (33.10± 0.45). Same findings were reported by Rekha et al. (2011) in calves and Aziz et al. (2021). The total erythrocyte count were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in infected group (11.68±0.52) as compared to the corresponding value of the control group (13.89±0.56).  Similar findings were observed by Thakre et al. (2016) in calves and Aziz et al. (2021) in sheep. The total erythrocyte count in cryptosporidium infected goats decreased due to dehydration and hemoconcen- tration caused by diarrhoea (Molina et al., 1994). The findings of present study that is decrease in hemoglobin, packed cell volume and total erythrocyte count were disagree with the findings of  Al-Doori (2018), Abdel-Saeed and Salem (2019) in cryptosporidium infection in rabbit and lambs respectively. They reported a significant increase in red blood cells, hemoglobin and packed cell volume. This difference may be due to the loss of epithelial cells of intestine and reduce absorptions from the villi, resulting diarrhoea, dehydration and anemia (Al-dujaily et al., 2017). Total leukocyte counts were significantly higher in (11.65±0.13) goats with cryptosporidiosis as comparison with healthy goats (7.86±0.12). These findings were in accordance with earlier workers (Thakre et al., 2016; Aziz et al., 2021). Contrary to the present findings Shobhamani et al. (2007) reported lower values of TLC in cryptosporidium infected calves. The infection with cryptosporidium or any other parasite may predispose to the animals for secondary bacterial invasions which lead to the increased total leukocyte counts. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in neutrophil counts in infected goats (46.50±0.45) as compared to control group (37.80±0.29) (Table 2). These findings were in agreement with Thakre et al., (2016) in calves. Intestinal inflammation and acute enteritis may be the cause of neutrophilia in the present study. There was a significant decrease in lymphocyte count in goats with cryptosporidiosis. These findings were accordance with the findings of Thakre et al. (2016) in calves. Contrary to the present findings Khan et al., (2020) reported increased lymphocyte count in cryptosporidium infected goats. Decreased lymphocyte count may be due to stress and depletion of lymphoid follicle. The values of eosinophil counts were significantly (P<0.05) higher (2.46±0.99) in infected goats than that of control group (1.40±0.16). The present finding was in agreement with Khan et al. (2020) in goats. The elevation of eosinophils in circulating blood is common in parasitic infections of intestines (Howard and Smith, 1999).

    Table 2: Haematological parameters (Mean ± SE) in Cryptosporidium infected goats in Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh.



    Table 3: Biochemical parameter (Mean ± SE) in Cryptosporidium infected goats.


           
    The significant increase in eosinophil count may be due to body defense mechanism as eosinophls are potent inflammatory cells that play an integral role in defense mechanism against parasites. The mean value of MCH was significantly higher in infected group. These finding were in agreement with the findings of Thakre et al., (2016), who observed a significantly increased value of MCH in Cryptosporidium infection. Contrary to the present findings Darabus et al. (2009) reported reduction of MCH in cryptosporidium infected calves. Higher MCH value may be due to the dehydration and hemoconcentration arising from diarrhoea in Cryptosporidium infected goats. The mean value MCV and MCHC increased but not significantly related between Cryptosporidium infected group and control group.
           
    There was a significant decrease value of albumin was observed in cryptosporidium infected group (2.75± 0.0.11) as compared to that of healthy animals (3.23±0.13g/dl) (Table 3). Same findings were reported by Khan et al. (2020) and Aziz et al. (2021). Albumin is a negative acute phase protein and its concentration decreases during inflammation of intestine (Hashemnia et al., 2014). The globulin value significantly decreased in cryptosporidium infected goat. The present finding was in agreement with Rekha et al. (2011) and Mokhbatly and Selim (2003). The values of total proteins significantly decrease in infected group (5.54±0.04 g/dl) than that of healthy animals (6.53± 0.08 g/dl). The findings of present study were in accordance with earlier workers (Molina et al., 1994; Shobhamani, 2005; Rekha et al., 2011; Khan et al., 2020; Aziz et al., 2021). The Albumin/globulin ratio were decrease in cryptospodium infected goats but it was not significantly related to the   healthy animals. Similar findings reported by Shobhamani (2005), Rekha et al. (2011) and Asati et al., (2008). The decrease in the albumin, globulin and total proteins may be due to the loss of above proteins in enteritis associated with cryptosporidium infection. Here, our findings revealed significant decrease in total erythrocyte count, PCV, hemoglobin, lymphocyte count, total protein, albumin and globulin levels whereas increase in neutrophil, eosinophil and total leukocyte count in Cryptosporidium infection.

    CONCLUSION

    From the present study it is evident that several predisposing factors like age of the animals, sex, season and parity of the dams might be contributing factors for the Cryptosporidium infection. It occurs more commonly in the neonatal kids, first parity dams and in monsoon season. Therefore, predisposing factors is one of the most important aspects, which should be kept in mind to minimize the Cryptosporidium infection. The infection with Cryptosporidium in goats had an effect on the hemato-biochemical parameters. There was a significant decrease in hemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, total protein, albumin, globulin and lymphocyte count and an increase in neutrophil, eosinophil and total leukocyte count in Cryptosporidium infected goats. 

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    The authors are highly thankful to the Dean, College of Veterinary Science and A.H. (NDVSU), Rewa, Madhya Pradesh for providing all necessary facilities and funding to carry out this research work.
     
    Disclaimers
     
    The views and conclusions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their affiliated institutions. The authors are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided, but do not accept any liability for any direct or indirect losses resulting from the use of this content.

    CONFLICT OF INTEREST

    The authors declare no competing interest.

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