Medical management of cystic echinococcosis

Cystic echinococcosis is a neglected zoonosis for which humans are dead end hosts. It is not only widely distributed in sheep rearing areas of low-income and middle-income countries but also has a significant presence in wealthy countries, for example, in Europe. It results in considerable morbidity, and its current management is far from optimal. Medical management is with a benzimidazole, with the addition of praziquantel under some circumstances.

Interest in mebendazole as an anticancer drug has stimulated research into new drug formulations to improve bioavailability and possibly reduce inter-individual variability in in-vivo drug levels, which may help its activity against cystic echinococcosis. Further evidence to support administration of albendazole with a fatty meal has been provided. GlaxoSmithKilne (GSK) has agreed to extend its albendazole donation programme to include echinococcosis. The search for new drugs has focussed on natural products, such as essential oils and on repurposing of existing drugs licensed for human use against other conditions.

The medical treatment of cystic echinococcosis remains sorely neglected, with no new drugs for almost 40 years. We need a better understanding of how to use the drugs we do have, whilst seeking new ones. Drug repurposing may be the best pathway.