Pathophysiology of swine trichuriasis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Animal Pathology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Trichuris suis, commonly known as the whipworm, is a significant gastrointestinal parasite affecting swine.
• Whipworm infections can lead to substantial economic losses in the swine industry due to reduced growth and health issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical signs, pathological changes, and biochemical alterations in pigs experimentally infected with Trichuris suis.
• To document the impact of Trichuris suis infection on the gastrointestinal mucosa and systemic health of pigs.

Main Methods:

• Experimental infection of pigs with Trichuris suis.
• Clinical observation for signs of illness, including diarrhea, anorexia, and growth rate.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the cecal and colonic mucosa for nematode attachment and damage.
• Biochemical analysis of blood parameters to assess systemic effects.

Main Results:

• Infected pigs exhibited profuse diarrhea between postinfection days 17-21, accompanied by anorexia, growth retardation, dehydration, and emaciation.
• SEM revealed Trichuris suis nematodes embedded within the cecal and colonic mucosa, causing significant mucosal disruption.
• Biochemical analysis showed decreased levels of albumin, amylase, calcium, and creatine phosphokinase.
• Increased levels of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-globulins, total iron-binding capacity, copper, potassium, uric acid, and aspartate aminotransferase were observed in infected pigs.

Conclusions:

• Trichuris suis infection causes severe gastrointestinal pathology and systemic biochemical disturbances in pigs.
• The observed mucosal damage and biochemical changes highlight the pathogenic potential of Trichuris suis in swine.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for developing effective control strategies against whipworm infections in pigs.