Antischistosomal impact of Albendazole and Nitazode on Schistosoma mansoni larval stages

Albendazole and Nitazode were tested as molluscicidal agents against Biomphalaria alexandrina snails. The effect of Albendazole and Nitazode on snails infected with Schistosoma mansoni miracidia and hermaphrodite glands of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails were also carried out. In addition, the parasitological parameters, the dynamics of serum-specific immunoglobulins and splenic cytokines associated with changes in granuloma diameter were assessed. The results indicate that exposure of B. alexandrina to Albendazole and Nitazode, resulted in a considerable reduction in the infectivity of S. mansoni miracidia to the snails and a severe damage in the hermaphrodite gland cells of treated snails. In addition, immunization did not affect worm reduction, but a slight decrease in granuloma diameter, increase in immunoglobulins and cytokines was observed. Reduction in worm burden was associated with a reduction in ova count. Changes in oogram pattern were mainly due to Albendazole and Nitazode. In conclusion, treatment with Albendazole and Nitazode with immunization resulted in significant reduction of parasitological parameters and rise of specific immunoglobulins.