Elaphostrongylus cervi in a population of red deer (Cervus elaphus) and evidence of cerebrospinal nematodiasis in small ruminants in the province of Varese, Italy

• DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x10000647
• Publication Date: 2010-10-06T08:59:10Z
• Authors: E.G. Alberti; G. Gioia; G. Sironi; S. Zanzani; P. Riccaboni; M. Magrini; M.T. Manfredi
• Keywords: Flock; Cervus elaphus; Cervus

Abstract Thirty-one faecal samples were collected from red deer in the northern area of Varese, Italian region Lombardy, between August and October 2008. The animals had either been hunted or accidently killed. Examination for internal parasites showed a prevalence 45.2% Elaphostrongylus cervi larvae species identification was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Ninety-seven also two goat flocks grazing same December 2007 May These 74.7% lungworms. Furthermore, central nervous systems five goats one sheep this with history neurologically related lameness examined. Histopathology E. cerebro- spinal nematodiasis cases out six. This study demonstrates transmission wild to domestic ruminants when graze area, possible occurrence clinical disease infected associated high deer.