Echinococcosis

TYPES

The two main types are Cystic Echinococcosis and Alveolar Echinococcosis

Cystic Echinococcosis or hydatid disease is a larval cestodiasis caused by Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm, an intestinal parasite of dogs. The definitive hosts are dogs and wild canidae. When the intermediate host become infected by consuming the parasite, eggs are passed to the host or dog’s faeces. Humans get infected when they consume contaminated food and drink, or have close contact with the infected soil or any object that enables them to ingest eggs, including the dog’s mouth and fur. Infection in animals and humans lead to the development of hydatid cysts in the liver, lungs or other organs. Cystic Echinococcosis may also affect other organs like bones and muscles.

Alveolar Echinococcosis is a chronic parasitic infection in humans caused by the embryonic stage of the fox tapeworm ( Echinococcus multilocularis). It is asymptomatic, with an incubation period of 5 to 15 years. It is usually begins in the liver but it can spread to other parts of the body including the lungs or brain.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms depend on the location and reaction of the cysts in the body. These symptoms may include:

• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• weakness
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• shortness of breath

The cyst can increase up to 5-10cm in size. If a cysts ruptures, it can cause a severe allergic reaction and even death.

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis is based on clinical findings. The person needs to admit whether he or she has a history of exposure to the infected host.

The disease can be diagnose by these tests:

• CT Scans
• MRI
• Ultrasound
• Serology test

TREATMENT

The treatments for Cystic echinococcosis are:

• surgery
• drugs
• percutaneous sterilization
• observation

The treatment for Alveolar echinococcosis is surgery, but those who are not suitable for surgery may be treated with:

• benzimidazoles
• mebendazole
• albendazole

Therapy for echinococcosis is based on the size, location of cysts and the overall health of patient.

To prevent this disease:

• Avoid direct contact with dogs, soil, water or with any contaminated or infected
•  Wash hands before eating, drinking, and after handling animals.
•  Practice proper