Hydatidosis

Hydatidosis (also known as echinococcosis unilocular) is a parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of the parasitic worm Echinococcus granulosus. Infection occurs when the parasite's eggs are ingested, most often through contact with infected dogs, which are the definitive hosts of the parasite.

When infected, cysts filled with fluid and parasite larvae (protoscolex) form in human organs (most often in the liver or lungs). Cysts slowly increase in size, causing compression and damage to surrounding tissue.

The main symptoms of hydatidosis are pain and discomfort in the area of ​​the affected organ, as well as general symptoms such as weakness and weight loss. Diagnosis is based on detection of cysts by medical imaging and serological tests.

Treatment includes surgical removal of the cysts or the use of antiparasitic medications. Prevention consists of avoiding contact with infected dogs, maintaining hygiene and regular examination of animals. Hydatidosis is widespread in areas with poor sanitation and dog population control.

Hydatidosis or echinococcosis is a disease caused by a parasite that affects humans and animals. This is a roundworm belonging to the hydatid family of tape parasites.

The pathogenesis of hydatids has not yet been fully studied. Hydatids need the parasite larva to enter the human body, most often the intestines. Young immature helminths are formed from it.

They manage to get to the liver or lung. Once in the soft tissues and organ cavities, the parasite continues to develop and secretes a large amount of fluid. This leads to the formation of a huge bubble consisting of parasite shell proteins and a semi-liquid medium. Dimensions can reach up to 60 cm in length. There is a queen with eggs there. During its life, the parasite absorbs small amounts of host cells, releasing large volumes of nutrients. They are excreted in bile. As the disease progresses for a long time, the parasites die and they begin to decompose. Doctors identify the following symptoms:

Cyanosis of the neck and face, swelling of the extremities appears. Due to the fact that the parasite feeds on liver cells, pain appears in the right hypochondrium and under the breast. These sensations can radiate to the back and even to the lower back. Temperature may rise to 41 degrees. The appearance of pain may be preceded by vomiting and nausea, accompanied by mucus and blood. The urge to vomit appears when pressing on the anterior abdominal wall. There may also be puffiness of the face. Some patients experience hemoptysis. Abdominal pain is accompanied by bloating and constipation. Patients complain of headache, weakness and general fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Symptoms are added depending on the stage of damage to the hepatobiliary system. An abscess may appear in the liver, causing disruption of its functions. The parasite has a strong toxic effect on the body. The color of the skin and sclera is icteric. Severe attacks of suffocation and asphyxia may occur. Often the patient dies from complications that arise.