Distribution and ultrastructure of two types of scolex gland cells in adult Proteocephalus macrocephalus (Cestoda, Proteocephalidea).

In the scolex-neck region of the adult Proteocephalus macrocephalus two types of eccrine gland cells are present. The first type of gland cells, localized in the frontal part of the scolex only, contains large, more or less round electron lucid granules. The second type of unicellular glands produces large electron dense granules. These electron dense granular gland cells are localized primarily in the neck region, only few are present in the scolex apex. The secretion of both types of gland cells is concentrated in the ducts opening to the exterior. The ducts are fixed to the plasmalemma of the tegument by septate junctions. The function of both types of gland cells is discussed.