Echinococcosis

Abstract

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus species. The life cycle involves a definitive host (dogs, wolves, jackals, and foxes) and an intermediate host. It is not transmitted from human to human. The most frequent agents are Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) and Echinococcus multiloculoris (E. multiloculoris). Echinococcus vogeli (E. vogeli), and Echinococcus oligarthus (E. oligarthus) are more rarely seen. The disease is more widespread in rural areas in which animal husbandry and uncontrolled slaughter are common. The infection can remain asymptomatic for extended periods. E. multiloculoris infection has a greater probability of being symptomatic, and of mortality. It most frequently settles in the liver and lungs. Single organ involvement and cyst are detected in the majority of patients. Diagnosis is based on clinical, serological, imaging, and pathological findings. It is a preventable and treatable public health problem. Education and animal control are very important.

Keywords

• albendazole
• echinococcosis
• hydatid cyst
• serology
• treatment