[The mebendazole treatment of patients with alveolar echinococcosis]

Chemotherapy was administered to 17 alveolar echinococcosis patients. Two of these patients developed an uncomplicated disease (a subtotal involvement of both liver lobes), fifteen a complicated condition. In 13 patients with the complicated condition metastases to the lungs, peritoneum, as well as diaphragmatic and abdominal organs' growth were detected, in 4 ones jaundice developed. Mebendazole was administered in a daily dose of 50 mg/kg together with the drugs improving its absorption. 30-day courses with 1-3 month intervals were administered. The efficacy of this therapy and its tolerance were assessed from clinical, laboratory and instrumental findings, including serologic tests. Intolerance presenting as alopecia was observed in 4 women, in one of them twice. Mebendazole efficacy in these patients was compared to that in patients administered the drug in a daily dose of 100 mg in 1978-1980. A positive time course was observed in 53% of patients.