Eosinophils as effector cells in the destruction of Schistosoma mansoni eggs in granulomas.

Histopathological sections of wedge-biopsied liver and surgically removed gallbladder of a schistosomiasis mansoni patient were studied for the eosinophil-mediated destruction of eggs in granulomas. Apparent degranulation of eosinophils on the eggs in the granulomas and concomittant deterioration of miracidia were observed. It was construed that granule-associated enzymes may be released upon the degranulation of eosinophils, pass through the micropores of the egg shell and cause death of the miracidium inside the egg.