Echinococcus is a parasitic worm which can cause infection in humans and animals. It is spread by ingesting contaminated food or feces. Infection can also be contracted by people who handle cattle, sheep and other animals in areas where the parasite is present. The most common site of echinococcus infection is in the lungs, but other organs may also be affected. In some cases, the cysts in the lungs can lead to coughing and chest pain. However, these symptoms are not usually serious.
Some other echinococcus symptoms can include right epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting. The signs and symptoms are similar to those of other gastrointestinal infections, and if not treated, can be life-threatening. Fortunately, treatment options for echinococcosis are available. Some treatments are surgical, while others are administered by taking anti-inflammatory medications. The most common methods of diagnosing echinococcosis are abdominal ultrasound and computerized tomography (CT). MRI or a chest X-ray may also be used to rule out other infections.
Echinococcus infections can affect several organs, including the liver, lung, spleen, kidneys, intestines, and skin. Some of the more common cysts are found in the liver, while other cysts can form in other organs. If a cyst forms in the liver, the patient may experience pain, a fever, or jaundice. Other symptoms can be swollen lymph nodes, a chronic cough, and weight loss. If the cyst ruptures, the person can develop anaphylactic shock. The treatment for echinococcus is individualized, depending on the extent of the infection and the location of the cysts.
There are two main types of echinococcus infection. Larval echinococcosis can spread through the blood and lymphatic systems, while cystic echinococcosis is a disease that develops in the lungs. The incidence of echinococcosis varies from region to region, and is influenced by the number of wildlife and domestic reservoirs, human behavior, and environmental conditions.
The infection can be prevented by washing fruits and vegetables and by handling livestock properly. It is also recommended that meat inspection procedures are followed. In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cysts. In some cases, antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs are administered to treat the cysts. It is important to note that relapse occurs in about 6 percent of patients, and a prolonged recovery period is needed. If the echinococcosis is detected early, the chances of survival increase.
In the United States, echinococcosis is relatively rare, with only a few cases reported each year. In other countries, including China, Africa, Central Asia, and southern South America, it is more common. In China, it is estimated that 0.6-1.3 million people are infected annually. The annual cost is US$3 billion. There is a need for better education on echinococcosis to prevent infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set up an Informal Working Group on Echinococcosis to promote international scientific exchange and co-operation. This organization is promoting the collection of epidemiological data and updating diagnostic guidelines for echinococcosis. Moreover, it is elaborating technical manuals for practical application.
