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Contents of this page: | |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Hydatidosis; Hydatid disease, Hydatid cyst diseaseDefinition Return to top
Echinococcus is an infection caused by the Echinococcus granulosus or Echinococcus multilocularis worm.
Causes Return to top
Echinococcus is common in:
In the United States, the disease is very rare. However, it has been reported in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
Humans become infected when they swallow eggs in contaminated food. The infection is carried to the liver, where cysts form. Cysts can also form in the:
Risk factors include being exposed to:
Symptoms Return to top
A liver cyst may produce no symptoms for 10 - 20 years until it is large enough to be felt by physical examination.
Symptoms include:
Exams and Tests Return to top
A physical examination may show signs of:
The following tests may be done to find the cysts:
Most often, echinococcosis is found accidentally when an imaging test is done for another reason.
Treatment Return to top
Many patients can be treated with albendazole or mebendazole. These medications are often used for up to 3 months. Another drug, praziquantel, may be helpful combined with albendazole or mebendazole.
The cysts may be removed with surgery, if possible. This can be a complicated surgery.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
If the cysts respond to oral medication, the likely outcome is good.
Possible Complications Return to top
The cysts may break open (rupture) and cause severe illness, including:
The cysts may also spread throughout the body.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of this disorder.
Prevention Return to top
In areas where the disease is known to occur, health education and routinely removing tapeworms from dogs can help prevent the disease.
References Return to top
Craig PS, McManus DP, Lightowlers MW, Chabalgoity JA, Garcia HH, Gavidia CM, et al. Prevention and control of cystic echinococcosis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2007;7:385-394.
Update Date: 8/1/2008 Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Page last updated: 21 April 2009 |