DIAGNOSIS OF CYSTIC HYDATIDOSIS IN EXPERIMENTALLY INFECTED SHEEP BY ELISA

Aim: Cystic echinococcosis, a zoonotic infection, is caused by metacestod formation of the Echinococcus
granulosus, and it causes major economical loses and health disorders. This study was carried out to determine the
sensitivities of ELISA test in order to serologic diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis in experimentally infected sheep.
Materials and Methods: A total of 20 Akkaraman sheep (4-5 months) were subjected in this study as 10 for control
and another 10 for experimental group. A total of 15.000 live protoscoleces collected from liver with hydatid cyst
were administered into a dog via oral route, and at the end of two months, maturated E. granulosus was collected
from intestinal lumen. Approximately 2000 eggs were administered into each sheep in the experiment group. Sheep
had been observed for 12 months. During this period, all the sheep were checked by using ELISA for parasite
specific antibodies.
Results: ELISA test used with partially purified cyst fluid antigen had shown 57% sensitivity and 67% specifity when
compared to necropsy. Antibody responses in sheep during 12 months were shown different peaks in different
times. The foremost antibody response was determined in two weeks after inoculation. No antibody response was
determined in calcified cysts.
Conclusion: It may be stated that ELISA test are more reliable for the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis, and
necropsy findings can be used as reference for determination of sensitivity and specifity of serology.