Friday, February, 10, 2012

Echinococcus

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Hydatidosis; Hydatid disease, Hydatid cyst disease


Treatment

Many patients can be treated with albendazole or mebendazole. These medications are often used for up to 3 months. Another drug, praziquantel, may be helpful combined with albendazole or mebendazole.

The cysts may be removed with surgery, if possible. This can be a complicated surgery.


Support Groups


Expectations (prognosis)

If the cysts respond to oral medication, the likely outcome is good.


Complications

The cysts may break open (rupture) and cause severe illness, including:

  • Fever
  • Low blood pressure
  • Shock

The cysts may also spread throughout the body.


Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of this disorder.


Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)