Leeches: A Review on their Pathogenic and Beneficial Effects

Abstract

Leech is one of the external sanguivorous parasites contributing to the reduction in productivity of livestock in different part of the World. Leeches bite the skin of the host and allow copious flow of blood preventing clot by hirudin. The bite is not painful, but the wounds may bleed for a long time and the clinical signs can be seen following this blood loss. Types of leech vary depending on ways by which they feed. Leech is segmented and lacks as hard exoskeleton; in its place it has a thin, flexible cuticle. For the most part leeches are aquatic, but terrestrial species are also found. Leeches are hermaphroditic and their feed relationships are varied. Hirudo medicinalis is the most known medicinal leech. Diagnosis can be made from clinical signs and finding the parasite in the bite area. Triclorfon, chloroform water, neguvon solution, mechanical removal, and tracheotomy in extreme cases are the best treatment approaches. Avoiding leech, depopulating infected water bodies and application of 'endod' to watering points are some methods of control and prevention.