Immunomorphology and pathogenesis of echinococcosis. III: Microscopic immunofluorescence studies in experimental alveolar echinococcosis.

By application of immunohistological methods in experimental alveolar echinococcosis, detailed information was obtained on the antigenic properties of each component of the echinococcus cyst. It was established that of the various layers, the capsula germinativa of the parasite cyst possesses the strongest antigenicity regardless of localization and maturity of the cysts. The dissemination of echinococcal antigens within the internal organs of the experimental animals was found to follow the general trends of other infections. Substances obtained from the capsula germinativa appear most suitable as reagents for immunodiagnostic purposes due to their strong antigenicity.