Hydatid Disease of the Liver

Abstract

Letters to the EditorHydatid Disease of the Liver Abdelmageed M. ImamMB, BS, MSc Abdelmageed M. Imam Clinical Parasitologist, King Faisal Hospital, Taif, Saudi Arabia Search for more papers by this author Published Online:1 Nov 1988https://doi.org/10.5144/0256-4947.1988.513SectionsPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload citationTrack citations ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditEmail AboutIntroductionTo the Editor: I have read with great interest the article by Dr. Al-Kraida and his associates describing "Hydatid disease of the liver in Riyadh."1 While discussing the diagnostic aids of echinococcosis, the authors stated the following: "Eosinophilia is not of any diagnostic value since other parasitic infestations, not uncommon here, may be responsible for it."It is a fact that generalized eosinophilia is present in 20% to 25% of cases of echinococcosis.2,3 Eosinophilia suggests the presence of this disease when it is clinically suspected, and then other confirmatory tests and procedures may be undertaken.4,5 The other possible parasitic infestations that could be causing eosinophilia can easily be ruled out by any parasitologist.I think that the eosinophil count, being a simple test that can be performed at rural hospitals and most dispensaries, is a very useful and suggestive clue to the diagnosis of echinococcosis. Following such concepts and practice will certainly encourage general practitioners to refer clinically suspected cases to capital hospitals and research centers for establishing a definitive diagnosis.ARTICLE REFERENCES:1. Al-Kraida A, Alam MK, Qazi S, et al.. "Hydatid disease of the liver in Riyadh" . Ann Saudi Med. 1988; 8(2):117–21. Google Scholar2. Beaver PC, Jung RC, Cupp EW. Clinical parasitology. 9th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1984:527–33. Google Scholar3. Manson-Bahr PEC, Apted FIC. Manson's tropical diseases. 18th ed. London: ELBS & Balliere Tindall, 1983;245–8. Google Scholar4. Schmidt GD, Roberts LS. Foundations of parasitology. 2nd ed. St. Louis: CV Mosby, 1981:379–83. Google Scholar5. Beck JM, Davies JE. Medical parasitology. 3rd ed. St. Louis: CV Mosby, 1981:215–20. Google Scholar Previous article Next article FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 8, Issue 6November 1988 Metrics History Published online1 November 1988 InformationCopyright © 1988, Annals of Saudi MedicinePDF download