Three-dimensional reconstruction of Echinococcus multilocularis larval growth in human hepatic tissue reveals complex growth patterns.

In this study we present, for the first time, a three-dimensional digital reconstruction of Echinococcus multilocularis larval growth in human tissue. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded hepatic tissues from patients with alveolar echinococcosis were serially sectioned, stained, and areas of larval growth of the parasite were microphotographed. Parasitic structures were reconstructed from multiple digital planes, revealing a root-like network of interconnected vesicles and tubules extending into the periphery of lesions.