Immunopathological studies on the encystation phase of experimental trichinosis after cortisone and cyclophosphamide treatment.

Efficacy of cortisone and cyclophosphamide on the muscle phase of Trichinella spiralis in albino rats, before and after complete encapsulation, was studied by haematoxylin and eosin staining for histopathological changes and by the indirect immunoperoxidase test for the extent of antigen deposition. Results showing beneficial effects of cortisone and hazardous action of cyclophosphamide are discussed in details. This study indicates that the use of cortisone in the treatment of trichinosis remains to be substantiated particularly when administered before complete encystation; the time at which the diagnosis is usually made.