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Published on: February 14, 2020
Echinococcosis
Donald P McManus1, Wenbao Zhang, Jun Li
1Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Australian Centre for International and Tropical Health and Nutrition, The Queensland Institute of Medical Research and The University of Queensland, Queensland 4029, Brisbane, Australia. donm@qimr.edu.au
Lancet (London, England)
|October 25, 2003
Summary
Echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus parasites, presents significant public health challenges. While cystic echinococcosis is manageable, alveolar echinococcosis is a severe, emerging zoonotic disease with limited control options.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic diseases
- Parasitology
- Public health
Background:
- Echinococcosis is a widespread zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus cestodes.
- Key species include Echinococcus granulosus (cystic echinococcosis) and Echinococcus multilocularis (alveolar echinococcosis).
- Both diseases are serious, with alveolar echinococcosis having high fatality rates and poor prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biology, transmission, epidemiology, and clinical aspects of Echinococcus infections.
- To discuss diagnostic and treatment strategies for echinococcosis.
- To explore available control and prevention measures for these emerging zoonotic diseases.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing knowledge on Echinococcus.
- Information was gathered on parasite biology, disease characteristics, and public health impact.
- Control and prevention strategies were analyzed based on current literature.
Main Results:
- Echinococcus granulosus causes cystic echinococcocosis, with some regions achieving effective control.
- Echinococcus multilocularis causes alveolar echinococcosis, a more problematic disease due to its sylvatic transmission cycle.
- Efficient and cost-effective control methods for alveolar echinococcosis are currently unavailable.
Conclusions:
- Echinococcosis remains a significant global health concern, with alveolar echinococcosis posing a greater challenge.
- Control of Echinococcus granulosus is feasible in some areas, but Echinococcus multilocularis requires further research for effective interventions.
- Understanding parasite biology and transmission is crucial for developing effective public health strategies against these zoonotic diseases.
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