Hydatid disease: the Lebanese contribution.

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hydatid disease (HD), also known as cystic echinococcosis (CE), is a major zoonotic disease with significant medical, economic, and public health implications globally.
• Infection occurs through ingestion of Echinococcus granulosus eggs, primarily affecting the liver and lungs in humans and animals like sheep and cattle.
• Lebanon has a long history of research on HD, with over 130 studies conducted since the 1920s, particularly by researchers at the American University of Beirut.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and consolidate over 130 studies on hydatid disease conducted in Lebanon.
• To honor researchers who have contributed significantly to the understanding and management of HD.
• To provide a historical foundation for future research on HD diagnosis and treatment in Lebanon and similar regions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of published studies on hydatid disease in Lebanon.
• Analysis of research contributions covering epidemiology, transmission, clinical features, diagnosis (radiological and serological), immunology, and therapeutic modalities.
• Synthesis of historical data to identify research gaps and future directions.

Main Results:

• Over 130 studies on HD have been published in Lebanon, covering diverse aspects of the disease.
• Key innovations include the Indirect Haemagglutination (IHA) test for serodiagnosis and the use of dilute cetrimide as a protoscolicidal agent.
• While incidence is decreasing in Lebanon, HD remains a public health concern, considered emerging or re-emerging globally.

Conclusions:

• Lebanese research has substantially impacted the understanding and management of hydatid disease.
• Despite decreasing incidence locally, HD requires continued attention as a global public health issue.
• Future research should leverage technological advancements for improved diagnosis and management of HD.