Purpose: To investigate the immuno-histological evidences in viable and non-viable hydatid cysts obtained from naturally infected camels.

Methods: A cohort study (February 2018-December 2019), a total of 15 hydatidosis-infected camels from slaughter houses in Cairo were involved. Specimens were investigated for parasite viability, liver histological changes, IL-17A cytokine immunohistochemical expressions in the adventitial layer, and the anti-nuclear antibodies (ANAs) immunofluorescent expression in the metacestode's structures. Real-Time Quantitative -Morphocytometry and SPSS were utilized.

Results: Multi-focal lesions and high viability were found in 60% of the cases. Overall accumulation of collagen associated the parasite establishment that involved infiltrations of mononuclear cells with significantly increased IL-17A expression. Interestingly, the ANAs appeared to have a role in the immune-defense against the metacestode showing different patterns. ANAs production correlated with IL-17A expression and the viability of the parasite.

Conclusion: IL-17A responses in hydatidosis is associated with collagen deposition and ANA production as a sort of anti-parasite immunity in a viability dependent manner.

Keywords: ANA; Collagen; IL17A; Viability.