Fascioliasis (Liver Fluke)

Infectious DiseaseParasiteBovineOvineNew

Key Points

Fascioliasis (liver fluke disease) is a parasitic infection caused by Fasciola spp. trematodes
Primarily affects cattle and sheep
Acute disease (classically in sheep) is caused by migration of immature flukes through the liver parenchyma, causing haemorrhage, necrosis and possibly sudden death
Chronic disease (classically in cattle) is caused by adult flukes residing in the bile ducts, causing cholangitis, fibrosis and cholestasis
Clinical signs include ill-thrift, pallor, poor production and sudden death in severe cases
Diagnosis is typically based on the clinical presentation followed by confirmation either with faecal sedimentation or coproantigen tests
Treatment with anthelmintics is effective but resistance is becoming more of a concern worldwide
Effective control relies on good pasture management and targeted anthelmintic use

Differential Diagnoses

Haemonchosis (H. contortus)
Ostertagiosis (O. ostertagi)
Copper deficiency
Johne’s disease (M. avium paratuberculosis)

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →