Histopathological, histochemical and immunohistochemical studies of experimental heterophyiasis in dogs and the protecting role of praziquantel

ABSTRACT

Parasitic diseases are associated with oxidative stress leading to DNA damage and apoptosis. Study of apoptosis pathway in heterophyiasis can help in treatment and prevention of pathological changes in tissues. Evaluation of the role of caspase 3 pathway in apoptosis, DNA changes and the role of praziquantel in heterophyiasis. Study design included experimental infection of dogs with encysted metacercariae of H. heterophyes followed by treatment with praziquantel. Tissue samples from the small intestine and the heart, before and after treatment, were stained for histopatholgical, histochemical and immunohistochemical studies. DNA damage was detected in infected tissues by histochemical stains, while apoptotic changes were detected in histopathological and immunohistochemical stained tissues. These changes were reversible with treatment by praziquantel. DNA and tissue damage due to heterophyiasis can be corrected by praziquantel treatment