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===Laboratory Tests===
===Laboratory Tests===
This is performed primarily on the clinical findings, seasonal occurance, as well as a previous history of fasciolosis on the farm. These along with post-mortem form the basis for diagnosis of Fasciola hepatica. In practice, diagnosis of ovine fasciolosis is often more straightforward than bovine fasciolosis.
Examination of faeces for liver fluke eggs is also useful, and may be complemented by laboratory tests. Firstly the measurement of Glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) is used. This is an enzyme released by damaged hepatic cells, and levels become elevated within the first few weeks of infection. Another test commonly used is measuring the glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), and this indicates damage to the epithelial cells of the bile ducts, and is seen later in the cycle, and maintained for a longer duration.
An [[ELISA]] can also be used in the detection process. It identifies antibodies against flukes in the serum and milk samples, and is deemd to be extremely reliable in this case.
'''Acute fasciolosis'''
*Clincal history
**Season
**Grazing
*Post-mortem examination
'''Chronic fasciolosis'''
*Clinical history
**Season
**Grazing
**Lethargy
**Weight loss
**Anaemia (pallor)
**Hypoalbuminaemia (bottle-jaw)
**Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase increase (i.e. increase in hepatic enzymes)
**Fluke eggs in faeces
===Pathology===
===Pathology===