Scanning Electron Microscopic Observations of Cysticercus fasciolaris (= Taenia taeniaeformis) after Treatment of Mice with Mebendazole

Abstract

The time-related topographical changes in mature cysticerci of T. taeniaeformis induced after medication of infected mice with 250 ppm of mebendazole are described. The changes included the gradual disappearance of microtriches and progressive degeneration of the tegument resulting in a irregular surface with grooves, holes and craterlike structures. Host cells adhered to the altered areas and the number of these cells increased when more severe changes became apparent. Finally, the necrotized cysticerci which lost their tegument completely, were almost entirely covered with adhesive host cells. A difference in the time sequence of the reported changes occurred between the scolex, the pseudoproglottids and the bladder. This difference in susceptibility towards the drug between the 3 parts of the parasite in relation to the morphology of their microtrichous covering is discussed.