Diagnostic spectrum
After positive detection of strongylid eggs in the flotation, the Haemonchus contortus special staining can be requested via test number 527 or endoparasites including Haemonchus contortus differentiation (test number 534) from faeces.
General information
Haemonchus contortus is also known as the barber’s pole worm. It parasitizes in the abomasum of sheep and goats, and rarely in cattle. Adult females reach a length of up to 30cm.
Clinically, young animals in their first year of grazing are particularly affected. The animals show loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain and diarrhea or hard, dark feces. Massive damage to the mucosa of the abomasum leads to anemia and hypoalbuminemia due to high blood loss. Deaths are possible.