Comparative Analysis of Host Immune Responses to Hydatid Cyst in Human and Ovine Hepatic Cystic Echinococcosis

Background Hydatid disease is caused by the larval stages of the canine tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. It is one of the most critical helminthic diseases, representing worldwide public health and socio-economic concern. Aim This study aimed to investigate the expression of apoptosis and immune response within hepatic tissues of humans and sheep infected with the hydatid cyst. Methods Paraffin-embedded tissue was prepared from each tissue sample and used for histopathological examination by Haematoxylin- Eosin. Also, toluidine blue staining was used for mast cell detection, while an immunohistochemical study was performed to assess CD3 T lymphocytes, CD4 helper T lymphocytes, CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CD20 memory B lymphocytes, CD68 macrophage, and caspase-3 antibodies. Results The histological examination revealed significant changes, including the infiltration of inflammatory cells, predominantly lymphocytes with scattered giant cells, necrotic hepatic tissue, and fibrosis. Toluidine blue stain revealed a higher number of mast cells (5 cells/field) in humans compared to sheep (3.6 cells/field). The immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that the CD3 were the most predominant inflammatory cell in the hepatic tissue of humans (intensive 70%), and sheep (moderate 38.47%). Caspase-3 was observed in all samples in different grades and mostly in human liver tissue. Conclusion: This data could aid in recognizing immunological markers for differentiating disease progression, as well as enhance the understanding of local immune responses to cystic echinococcosis (CE). The findings could provide preliminary data for future studies on immune responses associated with hydatid cysts.