STEPHANOPHILARIASIS IN A DAIRY CATTLE – CASE REPORT

Abstract

This article describes cases of stephanofilariasis on a dairy farm located in Castro, Paraná. Twenty-five lactating Holstein cows were treated, with incidence of the disease in different stages of lactation. Stephanofilariasis, or udder ulcer, is a parasitic disease that affects the integumentary system of cattle, causing lesions in the cranial region of the udder, which can become ulcerated and release bloody exudate and reduce productivity. It is caused by parasites of the genus Stephanofilaria spp. and transmitted by vectors, such as Haematobia irritans and Musca condunces. The clinical signs of the disease are irritation, reduced food intake and, consequently, reduced milk production and predisposition to mastitis. Diagnosis is based on lesions and signs presented, but confirmation can be made by laboratory tests. Therefore, treatment, which can sometimes be extensive depending on the severity of the lesion, is based on the application of topical medication and/or systemic therapy using dewormers. To prevent the disease, it is essential to adopt biosecurity measures to control vectors and consequently reduce the spread of the disease.