Scanning electron microscopy of the small intestine of rats experimentally infected with cynodiplostomum azimi

Scanning electron micrographs of the proximal intestine of rats infected with C. azimi showed mild villous changes and excessive mucus secretion as early as the first day after infection. On the second day, the regular leak-like pattern of the villi was not seen, the epithelial lining of the mucosa was damaged with large amounts of mucus. Goblet cell openings appeared either empty or filled with secretions. The mucosal damage persisted for three months. Four months after infection, villi regained part of their normal pattern. Their epithelial lining although less damaged, appeared delicate. Villi away from the worm were less affected. Pathological changes at different intervals of infection were discussed in relation to the surface structure of the parasite