Stilesia hepatica is a non-zoonotic cestode parasite localized in the bile ducts of domestic and wild ruminants, causing hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, cholangitis, and hepatomegaly that lead to economic losses through liver condemnation during slaughter. In Africa, where abattoir surveillance is central for detecting parasitic infections, S. hepatica remains under-researched despite its production and economic significance. This scoping review mapped existing evidence on its epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, economic impact, and control in African livestock. Comprehensive searches were conducted in AJOL, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google, and eligible peer-reviewed articles and academic theses were screened using predefined criteria. Twelve studies published between 1991 and 2018 were included, originating from Ethiopia (33.3%), Kenya (25.0%), Tanzania (16.7%), South Africa (16.7%), and Zimbabwe (8.3%). Stilesia hepatica was mainly reported in sheep and goats, with prevalence ranging from 2.6% to 39% in Ethiopia, 0.4% to 28% in Kenya, 7.3% to 8.1% in Tanzania, and up to 82% in Zimbabwe. Diagnosis largely relied on post-mortem liver inspection, with few studies using faecal examination. Common pathological lesions included bile duct fibrosis, thickening, and cirrhosis, frequently resulting in liver condemnation and financial losses estimated from USD 14,000 to over USD 200,000 annually, depending on the country and study scope. Recommended control measures included anthelmintic treatment, improved pasture management, and stricter meat inspection. Overall, the review shows that S. hepatica is an under-recognized but important cause of liver pathology and economic loss in African livestock. Its limited research coverage highlights the need for expanded surveillance, better diagnostic tools, and evidence-based control strategies to reduce its impact across the continent.
Justine Daudi Maganira (Fri,) studied this question.