Multilocular hydatid

This photo shows a cross-section of liver containing a multilocular hydatid cyst of Echinococcus multilocularis. On the top, at lower magnification, you can see some normal liver tissue, surrounded by sections through a dozen or so brood capsules to the right. The lower photo is an enlargement of one of the capsules. The laminated layer surrounding the capsule is quite thin, in comparison to a unilocular hydatid. Within the capsule are sections through numerous protoscoleces. Some of the sections through protoscoleces show the hollow interior where the scolex is withdrawn. Each protoscolex will become a new adult worm when eaten by a carnivore definitive host.