[South American camelids in Switzerland. II. Reference values for blood parameters]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Comparative Hematology
• Biochemistry

Context:

• Reference values for South American camelids (llamas and alpacas) are crucial for health monitoring in non-native environments like Switzerland.
• Limited data exists on species-specific and age-related blood parameter variations in these camelids.
• Parasitic infections can impact physiological markers, necessitating integrated diagnostic approaches.

Purpose:

• To establish comprehensive reference ranges for 41 blood parameters in Swiss-based llamas and alpacas.
• To identify significant differences in blood parameters between llamas and alpacas, and among different age/sex categories.
• To investigate correlations between specific parasitic infections and blood parameter alterations.

Summary:

• 273 blood samples from 141 llamas and 132 alpacas were analyzed for 41 parameters, categorized by age and sex.
• Significant differences were observed between llamas and alpacas for 26 parameters, and variations were noted across age groups.
• Elevated serum liver enzymes (GLDH, gamma-GT) correlated with Dicrocoelium dendriticum infestation, but not with gastrointestinal strongyle eggs.

Impact:

• Provides essential baseline hematological and biochemical data for veterinary diagnostics in South American camelids in Europe.
• Highlights the importance of considering species, age, and sex when interpreting blood work in llamas and alpacas.
• Suggests potential biomarkers for diagnosing Dicrocoelium dendriticum infections in camelids, aiding targeted treatment strategies.