Hydatidosis

Hydatidosis, also known as echinococcosis or cystic echinococcosis, is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of tapeworms belonging to the genus Echinococcus.

In China, the prevalent forms are cystic echinococcosis caused by the larvae of Echinococcus granulosus and alveolar echinococcosis caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. Domestic dogs, stray dogs, foxes, wolves and other wild animals are the main sources of echinococcosis. The tapeworms inhabit their small intestine, and the eggs are excreted with feces, contaminating water, soil, pastures, barns and food. Humans, livestock and small mammals become infected by ingesting eggs.

The general population is universally susceptible, with individuals engaged in animal husbandry, hunting, and fur processing being at higher risk. Hydatidosis patients may be asymptomatic early on, and clinical manifestations mainly result from cystic masses causing compression, irritation, or rupture.

Cystic echinococcosis can occur in various organs, with the liver and lungs being most common. Alveolar echinococcosis typically originates in the liver and is often diagnosed in advanced stages.

Preventive measures include enhancing personal protection for those involved in slaughtering, animal husbandry, and hunting, avoiding drinking untreated water and eating raw vegetables, deworming dogs, and proper disposal of dog feces.