DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_48_25 ISSN: 2229-5070
Polymerase chain reaction detection of Opisthorchis viverrini metacercaria in freshwater cyprinid fish from local markets in Nakhonnayok province, Thailand
Jinnapus Boossabong, Pavida Srichant, Apichaya Yoomeesuk, Rattiporn Kosuwin, Sunisa Songsaigath, Pattakorn Buppun Abstract
Background/Objectives:
Opisthorchis viverrini
, a foodborne zoonotic trematode endemic to Southeast Asia, is a major cause of cholangiocarcinoma and an environmental public health concern. Its transmission relates to aquatic ecosystems, waterborne diseases, and health–environment interactions. This study assessed prevalence and distribution in freshwater cyprinid fish from Nakhon Nayok, Thailand, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostics.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 359 fish representing five cyprinid species were collected from four districts. Tissue samples (gills, scales, and flesh) underwent enzymatic digestion for metacercarial recovery, followed by deoxyribonucleic acid extraction. Species-specific PCR targeting a 330 bp fragment was conducted, and products were visualized by agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results:
Among the 359 fish,
Henicorhynchus siamensis
was most common (27.6%), followed by
Barbodes schwanenfeldi
(25.9%),
Barbodes gonionotus
(24.5%),
Trichopodus trichopterus
(10.6%), and
Anabas testudineus
(11.4%). PCR revealed species- and tissue-specific infections:
H. siamensis
showed the highest prevalence (15.2% scales, 9.1% flesh, and 6.1% gills),
T. trichopterus
moderate (12.9% gills, 6.5% scales), and
B. gonionotus
low (2.3%), while none were detected in
A. testudineus
or
B. schwanenfeldi
. Ban Na showed the highest positivity (28%), followed by Ongkharak (12%) and Pak Phli (5%), with none in Mueang.
Conclusion:
This study highlights species- and region-specific variations of
O. viverrini
infection in freshwater fish from Nakhon Nayok. PCR provided reliable early detection, supporting molecular tools for surveillance and targeted public health interventions in opisthorchiasis control.