Scanning electron microscopy of normal and praziquantel treated S. haematobium worms (Egyptian strain)

The ultrastructure of the tegument of S. haematobium was examined before and after treatment with Praziquantel using scanning electron microscopy. The surface of the adult male worms prior to treatment showed numerous tubercles with apically directed spines and the lateral border showed highly pitted folds. The oral and ventral suckers showed well developed spines. Praziquantel administration caused various structural changes in the various groups studied. Blebs and spine deformities appeared as early as half an hr. after administration. Changes were also observed when the drug was administered prior to worm maturation resulting in generalized deformities in the worms which survived treatment, loss of spines and tegumental swellings.