Diagnostic Study on accidental Hymenolepis diminuta Infection in Laboratory Rats in Iraq

Abstract

Rats are the most common laboratory animals used in biological testing and research. They are seldom examined for native ecto−and endoparasites before their usage in the experiments. Parasitic infestation is one common problem in the laboratory animals, which can change the interpretation of final results. In this study, high accidental infection with Hymenolepis diminuta (H. diminuta) was reported in experimental Sprague-Dawley male rats. The diagnosis was based upon the viewing of numerous tapeworms attached to the intestinal wall, and the presence of H. diminuta characteristics eggs in the intestinal content. The authors suggest to pay special attention for this zoonotic tapeworm in contact animal attendants. In addition, extended survey and investigations need to be done for all units of laboratory animals, to assure the healthy environmental conditions and the well-being needed to the animals used in experimental trials. An educational control programs are also need to implement in the animal houses.