Evaluation of techniques for detection of small trematode eggs in faeces of domestic animals

Vet Parasitol. 2008 Oct 1;156(3-4):346-9. doi: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.05.021. Epub 2008 May 22.

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate techniques for detection of small trematode eggs in faeces of dogs, cats and pigs. Faecal samples from dogs (n=80), cats (n=35) and pigs (n=114) were examined by Kato-Katz technique (KK), formalin-ether sedimentation technique (FE) and a method of combining: filtration, sedimentation and centrifugation, developed at DBL - Centre for Health Research and Development (former Danish Bilharziasis Laboratory) (DBL). Necropsy was performed on 38 dogs, 25 cats and 16 pigs and was considered as a gold standard method for evaluation of the techniques. The results showed 100% specificity for the three techniques. Lower sensitivity was seen for the KK-technique in dog samples in comparison to that for DBL- and FE-technique. The sensitivity of the three techniques was similar in cats and pigs. Based on these findings and practical issues, DBL-technique was chosen as most suitable because the eggs were easily detected and quantified. No toxic chemicals or special equipment were required in comparison with FE-technique that needs ether solution and thus fume cupboards which are often unavailable in local veterinary centres in Vietnam and other developing countries.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Cat Diseases / parasitology
  • Cats
  • Dog Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Dog Diseases / parasitology
  • Dogs
  • Ovum*
  • Parasite Egg Count / methods*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Swine
  • Swine Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Swine Diseases / parasitology
  • Trematoda / physiology*