Biochemical alterations in Cryptosporidium infected calves

Cryptosporidiosis is a significant enteric infection in calves, particularly in pre-weaned animals, causing severe diarrhoea, economic losses, and potential zoonotic transmission. This study aimed to assess the biochemical alterations associated with Cryptosporidium infection in calves to aid in diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A total of 30 calves were included in the study, comprising 20 infected and 10 healthy individuals. Blood samples were aseptically collected from the jugular vein using clot-activated vials, and biochemical parameters were analyzed using an Automatic Biochemical Analyzer. The results revealed notable deviations in key biochemical markers among the infected group. Specifically, the infected calves exhibited significantly increased levels of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), creatinine, urea, and C-reactive protein (CRP), alongside a marked decrease in total protein levels compared to healthy controls. These alterations suggest the presence of hepatic and renal dysfunction as well as systemic inflammation due to the parasitic infection. The elevated SGOT and SGPT levels likely indicate hepatocellular damage and inflammation, while increased creatinine and urea levels reflect renal impairment potentially linked to dehydration and acute kidney injury. The heightened CRP values support the existence of a systemic inflammatory response. Conversely, the reduced protein levels may be due to poor nutrient absorption or protein loss associated with diarrhoea. In conclusion, the biochemical profile of Cryptosporidium-infected calves demonstrates distinct deviations from normal values, emphasizing the importance of routine biochemical monitoring in diarrhoeic calves. These findings can assist in early diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of cryptosporidiosis in bovine populations.