Sheep as an experimental model of Taenia saginata cysticercosis

Taenia saginata cysticercosis was experimentally produced in 4 Soay sheep, 1 four-horned sheep and 1 Texel sheep by oral administration of eggs of the parasite. Some of these sheep were given dexamethasone therapy. The evolution of T. saginata cysticercosis in this host is characterised by a rapid immune reaction so that by 6 weeks after infection almost all the cysts were dead. There were indications that the dexamethasone therapy may have assisted establishment of the infection and to some extent, postponed the process of degeneration.