Use of semi-nested PCR and rhinoscopy for the diagnosis of oestrosis

Oestrosis is a parasitic disease, caused by larvae of Oestus ovis, which affects the nasal cavities and adjoining sinuses of sheep and goats. In this study, the usefulness of semi-nested PCR and rhinoscopy in the diagnosis of oestrosis was evaluated by applying these techniques in the heads of 184 animals (158 sheep and 26 goats) obtained from an abattoir shortly after slaughter. Gross evaluation revealed that 84.2% of the sheep and 38.5% of the goat heads were positive for oestrosis. Semi-nested PCb R yielded 100% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in detecting oestrosis in 184 corresponding mucus samples. Rhinoscopic examination yielded 100% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for oestrosis in goats, with 81% diagnostic sensitivity and 100% specificity in sheep. These results clearly indicate the usefulness of semi-nested PCR and rhinoscopy in the diagnosis of oestrosis.