Effects of sensitization on efficacy of mebendazole in mice infected with adult Angiostrongylus costaricensis

Abstract

The relation between immunopotentiation and efficacy of mebendazole in sensitized mice infected with adult Angiostrongylus costaricensis was investigated. When compared with the non-treated control, the sensitized control showed better results in almost all parameters with a few mice being positive for the first-stage larvae in feces and eggs in the intestinal section. The results suggest development of protective immunity in the sensitized mice though it was not completely effective for inhibiting infection, worm growth and their functions. The immunity seemed to be developed by producing specific antibodies against the larvae by sensitization. Among 4 infected groups, the sensitized-treated group had the best results in all parameters especially in worm recovery and worm body length which referred that drug action was enhanced by the sensitization.