The relationship between anemia indicators and intestinal parasitic infections in Iraqi camels

Abstract

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between anemia indicators and parasitic infections in dromedary camels and assessed variation in hematological parameters according to parasite type, age, sex, body condition score (BCS), and concurrent infection. A total of 225 camels (122 parasitized and 103 uninfected comparison animals) examined at slaughterhouses in Karbala and Najaf, Iraq, between 1 May 2025 and 31 May 2026 were included. Fecal samples were examined by flotation and sedimentation techniques, and blood smears were used to detect Trypanosoma spp. Blood samples were analyzed for total erythrocyte count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), and packed cell volume (PCV). Parasitized camels had lower anemia-related hematological indices than uninfected animals. Haemonchus spp.-infected camels showed marked reductions in RBC, Hb, and PCV (6.12±0.70 × 10⁶/µL, 8.20±0.85 g/dL, and 20.40±1.90%, respectively) compared with the uninfected group (9.45±0.85 × 10⁶/µL, 13.20±1.10 g/dL, and 32.40±2.50%). Young parasitized camels, infected females, and camels with poor body condition showed the lowest hematological values within their respective classifications. Concurrent gastrointestinal parasitism and Trypanosoma infection was associated with the most severe hematological deterioration (RBC 3.90±0.40 × 10⁶/µL, Hb 5.40±0.55 g/dL, and PCV 13.10±1.10%). These findings indicate a strong association between parasitic infection and reduced RBC, Hb, and PCV values in camels. Parasite type, age, sex, body condition, and concurrent infection may modify the severity of the anemic profile. Integrated parasitological screening, hematological monitoring, nutritional management, and control of gastrointestinal and blood parasites are recommended.