Capillaria hepatica in Rattus Spp. Captured in Sanandaj and Orally uninfected Balb/C Mice With Embryonated Eggs

Introduction: Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica) is a nematode with worldwide distribution among rodents (Rattus rattus, Rattus norvegicus) which can also infect human beings through ingestion of embryonated eggs and cause the zoonotic disease of capillariasis philippinensis. This study aimed to determine the C. hepatica infection in Rattus spp. in Sanandaj, Kurdistan province of Iran, as well as orally infecting of Balb/c mice with embryonated eggs. Methods: Area of study was the city of Sanandaj located in the west of Iran, wherein 4 R. norvegicus, 6 R. rattus and 10 Mus musculus were captured using live traps in a period of more than 2 years. Livers were examined for C. hepatica infection, sectioned, and then stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Embryonated eggs were used in order to experimentally infect 3 Balb/c mice orally. Results: Capillaria hepatica was detected in 5 out of 20 livers (25%); rates of infection were 50% (2/4) for R. norvegicus, 50% (3/6) for R. rattus, and 0% (0/10) for M. musculus. Cross sections of the livers showed active infections as eggs were deposited beside the worms, and they were also observed inside the female worms. After performing the autopsy on 3 mice that had been infected experimentally, there was no sign of infection based on gross and microscopic examinations. Conclusion: This study was the first report on C. hepatica infection in Rattus spp. in Sanandaj. The main reservoir hosts of C. hepatica infection in different areas of Sanandaj were R. rattus and R. norvegicus. On the other hand, with regard to limited sample size of study, no significant role could be considered for either infection or transmission of C. hepatica for M. musculus in these areas.