Serum Iron, Total Iron-Binding Capacity, Unbound Iron-Binding Capacity, Transferrin Saturation, Serum Copper, and Hematological Parameters in Pregnant Akkaraman Ewes Infected With Gastro-Intestinal Parasites

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate serum iron parameters, and copper and iron deficiency anemia in ewes infected with gastro- intestinal parasites. This study was conducted with 60 pregnant Akkaraman ewes. In the statistical analyses, values obtained from both parasite infected and uninfected ewes were compared. Significant decreases were observed in PCV (P < 0.05), Hb (P < 0.05), RBC (P < 0.05), total protein (P < 0.05), albumin (P < 0.05), globulin (P < 0.05), and MCHC (P < 0.01), and a significant increase was seen in the WBC value (P < 0.05) in the parasite infected group. Furthermore, the parasite infected group had lower serum Fe (P < 0.001), TS % (P < 0.001), and serum Cu (P < 0.01) levels, and had higher UIBC values (P < 0.05) compared to the values obtain from the uninfected group. Therefore, in addition to antiparasite drug treatment in parasite infected pregnant ewes, iron preparations should also be administered in order to treat iron deficiency.