Interpretation of serum iron, copper and zinc concentrations in experimentally induced cryptosporidium parvum infection among calves

In the present study, the aim was to analyze serum iron, copper and zinc concentrations among experimentally induced C. parvum infection of calves. The animal material of the research consisted 1-3 days old, colostrum treated, 16 healthy male Holstein calves. Calves were enrolled into 2 groups (n=8) and calves among group I were administered 1x107 C.parvum oocyts orally, in an attempt to experimental infection. Group II identified as control group, recived placebo. Calves were evaluated taking into account relevant clinical, haematological, biochemical and parasitological sings and monitorized for 1 mounth duration. For interpretation of Fe, Zn and Cu concentrations, blood samples were withdrawn 1 day prior to inoculation, at the time of inoculation and following days 1., 2., 4., 7., 14., 28., after inoculation. Analysis performed revealed that C. parvum infected calves presented alterations among Fe, Zn and Cu concentrations with time respectively at the levels of p˂0,01, p˂0,05, and p˂0,05. Cu and Fe concentrations among groups showed alterations at the level of p˂0,05 and p˂0,01 besides there was no statistical difference among groups for zinc concentration. In conclusion it was suggested that among calves infected with C.parvum serum iron, copper and zinc concentrations might have alterations due physiopathological changes induced by C. parvum. Key words: Cryptosporidium parvum, neonatal calf, diarrhea, iron, copper, zinc