EVALUATION OF TEAR SECRETION IN GOAT KIDS WITH COCCIDIOSIS BY SCHIRMER TEAR TEST

Abstract

Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species is common in 2–4 month old goats, are highly pathogenic in goat kids. The most common clinical findings are dehydration, weakness, weight loss, diarrhea and anemia. The aim of this study is to determinate of tear secretion in goats kids with coccidiosis and healthy ones by utilizing STT. A total of 20 pure hair goats kids aged between 2-4 months, among which 10 were with clinical coccidiosis (Group 1, n=10) and 10 were in the healthy conditions (Group 2, n=10), in a single farm located at Siirt, Turkey. Fecal samples were examined microscopically for concentrated flotation and the presence of oocysts. STT test was performed on both eyes of healthy and clinical coccidiosis and results were recorded. Group 1 Mean ± SD STT values for right and left eye were 5.8 ± 1.75 and 5.1 ± 1.66 mm/min and Group 2 Mean ± SD STT values for right and left eye were 13.4 ± 2.37 and 12.5 ± 2.12 mm/min, respectively. Comparison of STT values of the right eyes with left eyes did not differ significantly in both groups (P = 0.271, P = 0.235). Both eye’s STT results combined to compare groups. The mean of Group 1 (5.45 ± 1.7 mm/min) was found to be significantly lower than the mean of Group 2 (12.95 ± 2.24 mm/min) as a result (P < 0.001). As a result of this study, the amount of tear secretion was determined with the STT and there was statistically significant difference between healthy and goat kids clinical coccidiosis. © 2021, Assiut University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. All rights reserved.