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[Parasite-host relationships and treatment]
Dominique-Angèle Vuitton1, Georges Mantion, Brigitte Bartholomot
1Centre Collaborateur OMS pour la Prévention et le Traitement des Echinococcoses humaines, Université de Franche-Comté et C.H.U. Jean Minjoz-25030 Besancon.
Bulletin De L'Academie Nationale De Medecine
|February 25, 2009
Summary
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a parasitic disease caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. Understanding host resistance and parasite tolerance mechanisms, including immune responses and cytokines like IL-10 and TGF-beta, is key for managing this zoonotic disease.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Context:
- Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a severe parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus multilocularis.
- The disease primarily affects the liver and is transmitted through carnivores (like foxes) and contaminated food or contact.
- Humans act as intermediate hosts, with susceptibility influenced by genetic factors and immune status.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the complex interplay between the host immune system and Echinococcus multilocularis.
- To identify mechanisms of parasite tolerance and host resistance in alveolar echinococcosis.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies and preventive measures for AE.
Summary:
- Echinococcus multilocularis larvae cause a tumor-like growth in intermediate hosts, including humans.
- Host immune responses, involving cytotoxic mechanisms and delayed-type hypersensitivity, normally control parasite growth.
- Parasite factors (carbohydrate antigens) and host cytokines (IL-10, TGF-beta) contribute to immune tolerance, which can be overcome by interferon-alpha therapy.
Impact:
- Interferon-alpha shows promise as a therapeutic option for AE patients by rebalancing host immunity.
- Prevention strategies focus on lifestyle modifications, such as cooking food, deworming domestic animals, and avoiding contact with infected definitive hosts.
- While vaccination is theoretically possible, practical implementation remains a significant challenge.
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