Haematological parameters and its relationship with faecal egg count and FAMACHA^© score in Haemonchus contortus naturally infected goats

Haemonchus contortus is considered as main gastrointestinal parasite causing anaemia and hypoproteinemia in ruminants. The aim of the present study was to determine the correlation between haematological parameters with duo of faecal egg count and FAMACHA^© score in goats predominantly infected with Haemonchus contortus. A total number of 100 goats were divided into five groups [Group I (EPG 100-300), II (EPG 400-600), III (EPG 700-1000), IV (EPG 1100-1200) and V (EPG 1300 and above)]. Results revealed a highly significant (P<0.01) negative correlation between EPG and FAMACHA^© score with haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV) and total erythrocyte count (TEC). Mean values of Hb, PCV and TEC were declined in groups with increase in EPG and highly significant (P<0.01) differences were observed between all groups. Highly significant (P<0.01) and negative correlations were observed between TLC, lymphocyte, monocyte with duo of EPG and FAMACHA^© scores whereas correlations between EPG, FAMACHA^© score with both of neutrophil and eosinophil were highly significant (P<0.01) and positive. However, EPG and FAMACHA^© score with basophil were showed significant (P<0.05) and negative correlation. The mean values of TLC were declined in groups having higher worms load. In DLC, the mean values of both neutrophil and eosinophil were elevated but lymphocyte and monocyte values were decreased with the increase in worm burden. Significant (P<0.01) differences were observed in values of TLC and DLC between all groups but, no significant difference was observed for monocyte between group-I and II and for basophil between group-II and IV; and group-III and V.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The paleness of eye conjunctiva showed highly inverse correlation with Hb, PCV and TEC.

• FAMACHA^© chart scoring method can be used by farmers to identify anaemia in goats.