Cysticercosis in cattle in Senegal

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Food Safety
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Taenia saginata cysticercosis poses a significant public health and economic concern in cattle.
• Accurate detection of cysticerci is crucial for effective control and prevention of human taeniasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Taenia saginata cysticerci in cattle from Dakar.
• To compare the efficacy of histological examination with routine meat inspection for detecting cysticercosis.

Main Methods:

• Dissection and histological examination of hearts and masticatory muscles from 102 cattle.
• Comparison of findings with data from routine meat inspection of 2088 cattle.

Main Results:

• Cystic lesions were found in 13.7% of hearts and 25.5% of masticatory muscles upon initial examination.
• Histological confirmation revealed a final infection rate of 5.8% in hearts and 15.7% in masticatory muscles.
• Routine meat inspection detected lower infection percentages compared to the detailed examination.

Conclusions:

• Cattle in Dakar exhibit a notable prevalence of Taenia saginata cysticercosis.
• Histological analysis provides a more accurate assessment of infection rates than routine meat inspection.
• Enhanced surveillance and control measures are recommended to mitigate the impact of Taenia saginata in cattle populations.