[Echinococcus alveolaris--clinical manifestation, treatment and prognosis]

Life-cycle and endemic areas of Echinococcus alveolaris are described with reference to the autonomous character of this parasitosis. Especially human ways of infestation are shown with man's role as definitive host. The natural course of this parasitosis leads obligatory to lingering illness and death. Indication of exploratory laparotomy remains beyond doubt. Based on our own experience and corresponding with other authors importance of radical resection has to be propagated with reservation. Maintaining of the bile flow however is most important with regard to operative mortality, survival time and quality of life--even when performed as palliative surgical treatment. Adjuvant therapy with Mebendazol (Vermox) is considered to be helpful in improving the unfavourable prognosis of this parasitic disease.