Pathophysiology of Oestrus ovis infection in sheep and goats: a review.

Oestrus ovis is a very common parasite of sheep and goats in many countries. Its pathological effects are often underestimated because owners and veterinarians are used to seeing the infection. The study of natural and experimental infections has provided information about the evolution of the disease and its pathophysiology. Hypersensitivity is involved; the numbers of mast cells and eosinophils increase but changes in IgE have only recently been examined. Little is known about the development of immunity but it is possible that some animals are immunodeficient.