Improvement of a fecal flotation technique for porcine isosporosis

Abstract

Abstract Porcine isosporosis is a highly pathogenic parasite that has become one of the most important diseases responsible for piglet diarrhea, weight loss, and mortality, resulting in significant economic losses for the pig sector. Currently, fecal examination, primarily using the saturated saline flotation technique, is a standard approach for detecting Isospora suis oocysts in piglets with porcine isosporosis. However, fecal samples often include too many contaminants that float on the liquid surface, resulting in a blurred visual field under microscopy and lowering the accuracy of Isospora identification. This study used urea as a flotation solution to enhance and improve the Isospora fecal examination technique. Simultaneously, soap granules (sodium salts of fatty acids) and a silicate defoaming agent were employed to reduce the impact of protein, fat, and air bubbles in piglet feces, resulting in an improved swine Isospora fecal detection technique. Clinical assessment of piglet fecal samples from three pig farms revealed that the positive rate of porcine isosporosis increased, and the detection rate increased by nearly five times. This approach is simple and effective. It is appropriate for clinical use as it allows for the prompt formulation of preventative and control plans, therefore helping to reduce economic losses caused by porcine isosporosis.