Genus Echinococcus Research Articles

Current Opinion in Clinical Management of Human Cystic Echinococcosis in the Liver

Cystic echinococcosis remains a serious and threatening disease in countries on all continents where it is endemic. It is a zoonosis that continues to be neglected, despite all the efforts of the teams working on it and the WHO. Therefore, it is never too much to remember the clinical management of this disease in humans. This is what we intend in this manuscript. The disease is caused by the larval stages of cestodes (tapeworms) of the genus Echinococcus found in the small intestine of carnivores, which infects humans due to accidental ingestion of eggs of these parasites. The most frequent and most widespread across all continents is cystic echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus (sensu lato). The annual incidence of CE can range from less than 1 to 200 per 100,000 inhabitants in various endemic areas. In China and Central Asia, the population risk is more than 40 million people, with a mortality rate of about 2% - 4%. Objectives: One of the objectives of this manuscript is to recall the parasite cycle and the form of contamination, a very important public health aspect, and draw attention to this neglected zoonosis that affects millions of people, particularly in the countries of Central Asia, the Mediterranean basin and South America. Last but not least, we intend to draw attention to the correct nomenclature in relation to the terms that define the disease, the different stages, and the proper designations, particularly with regard to therapeutic modalities. Method: The manuscript also aims to describe the form of contamination of the disease, the diagnostic methods, in particular the use of ultrasound, and the therapeutic modalities, some of which, particularly the invasive ones, must be carried out in Centres dedicated to the study and treatment of this zoonosis. Conclusion: Despite these important data and the socioeconomic impact Echinococcosis remains a neglected disease. Given this situation, all forms of echinococcosis remain serious public health threats, particularly in South America, the Mediterranean basin, and Central Asia, which must deserve the attention of the states of these continents and the WHO.

Prevalence and geographic distribution of Echinococcus genus in wild canids in southern Québec, Canada.

Echinococcus spp. is an emerging zoonotic parasite of high concern. In Canada, an increase in the number of human and animal cases diagnosed has been reported, but information regarding the parasite's distribution in wildlife reservoir remains limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of wild canids infected with Echinococcus spp. and Echinococcus multilocularis in areas surrounding populated zones in Québec (Canada); to investigate the presence of areas at higher risk of infection; to evaluate potential risk factors of the infection; and as a secondary objective, to compare coproscopy and RT-PCR diagnostic tests for Taenia spp. and Echinococcus identification. From October 2020 to March 2021, fecal samples were collected from 423 coyotes (Canis latrans) and 284 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) trapped in 12 administrative regions. Real-time PCR for molecular detection of genus Echinococcus spp. and species-specific Echinococcus multilocularis were performed. A total of 38 positive cases of Echinococcus spp., of which 25 were identified as E. multilocularis, were detected. Two high-risk areas of infection were identified. The prevalence of Echinococcus spp. was 22.7% (95% CI 11.5-37.8%) in the Montérégie centered high-risk area, 26.5% (95% CI 12.9-44.4%) in the Bas-St-Laurent high-risk area, and 3.0% (95%CI 1.8-4.7%) outside those areas. For E. multilocularis, a prevalence of 20.5% (95% CI 9.8-35.3%) was estimated in the high-risk area centered in Montérégie compared to 2.4% (95% CI 1.4-3.9%) outside. Logistic regression did not show any association of infection status with species, sex, or geolocation of capture (p > 0.05). This study shows the circulation of Echinococcus in a wildlife cycle in 9/12 administrative regions of Québec.

A rare case of hepatic hydatid cyst in Somalia: a case report

BackgroundEchinococcosis, or hydatid disease, is caused by the larval forms of taeniid cestodes belonging to the genus Echinococcus. Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis are the primary species responsible for human echinococcosis, and mostly they affect the liver. The disease course is typically slow, and the patients tend to remain asymptomatic for many years.Case presentationA case of 19-year-old male Somali from Medina, Saudi Arabia, was presented to the Mogadishu Somali Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital with the complaint of right upper quadrant abdominal pain and dysuria for 1 month. A thorough physical examination, laboratory examination, and imaging investigations, including abdominal sonography and computed tomography (CT), were conducted.Both ultrasound and CT scans revealed a cystic lesion in the right lobe of the liver, confirming the diagnosis of a hydatid cyst. Consequently, the patient underwent exploratory laparotomy. It was successfully managed surgically, and the definitive diagnosis was provided by the pathologist, confirming degenerated echinococcal cysts that contain abundant debris. Additionally, the patient received oral albendazole both before and after the surgery and after 7 months and is currently symptom-free.ConclusionsHydatid disease in the liver may persist without symptoms and often goes undiagnosed due to the slow growth of the cysts. The diagnosis needs careful history reporting, physical examination, and appropriate imaging investigations.

Circulating free DNA as a diagnostic marker for echinococcosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Echinococcosis is a chronic zoonotic disease caused by tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified encapsulated disease as one of 17 neglected diseases to be controlled or eliminated by 2050. There is no accurate, early, non-invasive molecular diagnostic method to detect echinococcosis. The feasibility of circulating free DNA as a diagnostic method for echinococcosis has yielded inconclusive results in a number of published studies. However, there has been no systematic evaluation to date assessing the overall performance of these assays. We report here the first meta-analysis assessing the diagnostic accuracy of cfDNA in plasma, serum, and urine for echinococcosis. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and WeiPu databases up to 17 January 2024, for relevant studies. All analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3, Meta-DiSc 1.4, Stata 17.0, and R 4.3.1 software. The sensitivity, specificity, and other accuracy indicators of circulating free DNA for the diagnosis of echinococcosis were summarized. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to identify sources of heterogeneity. A total of 7 studies included 218 patients with echinococcosis and 214 controls (156 healthy controls, 32 other disease controls (non-hydatid patients), and 26 non-study-targeted echinococcosis controls were included). Summary estimates of the diagnostic accuracy of cfDNA in the diagnosis of echinococcosis were as follows: sensitivity (SEN) of 0.51 (95% CI: 0.45-0.56); specificity (SPE) of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99); positive likelihood ratio (PLR) of 11.82 (95% CI: 6.74-20.74); negative likelihood ratio (NLR) of 0.57 (95% CI: 0.41-0.80); diagnostic ratio (DOR) of 36.63 (95% CI: 13.75-97.59); and area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96-1.00). Existing evidence indicates that the combined specificity of circulating cfDNA for echinococcosis is high. However, the combined sensitivity performance is unsatisfactory due to significant inter-study heterogeneity. To strengthen the validity and accuracy of our findings, further large-scale prospective studies are required.Systematic review registrationThe systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews PROSPERO [CRD42023454158]. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.

Mediastinal dumbbell hydatid cyst compressing the thoracic spinal cord: A case report and literature review

Introduction: Hydatid disease, or echinococcosis, is a parasitic infection of humans caused by tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. The liver and lungs are the most common organs to be involved. Mediastinal and bone involvement were reported to be rare, 0.1% and 0.5–4%, respectively. Spine involvement has been reported in 50% of patients with bone involvement. Case Report: We presented a rare case of an 18-year-old male patient with a recurrent mediastinal hydatid cyst which widened the neural foramina, extended into the spinal canal, and compressed the spinal cord. He presented with back pain, spastic paraparesis, and bowel/bladder incontinence. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed polycystic mediastinal mass with erosion of the upper thoracic vertebra and the rib; widening of the neural foramina; extension into the spinal canal and compression of the spinal cord. The patient was operated on. Through a posterior approach, the polycystic mass was removed totally. The mass in the mediastinal (paravertebral) area was removed totally through the widened neural foramen. The cavity was washed with 3% hydrogen peroxide. The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a hydatid cyst. Postoperatively the patient was treated with oral albendazole for six months. On the sixth month follow-up, the neurologic status had only mild improvement and the follow-up scan did not show any recurrence of the infection. Conclusion: Hydatid cysts can rarely involve the mediastinal (paravertebral) area and can extend to the spinal epidural space causing neurologic compromise.

Investigation of patients with new infection of echinococcal cyst in Sardinia, Italy

Cystic Echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of a tapeworm of Taeniidae family, genus Echinococcus and species Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.). CE is a worldwide public health problem and is highly incident in all Mediterranean areas.Following clinical, image techniques and serological investigations all 83 subjects involved in the study were diagnosed for CE. General and clinical data were entered into a database and evaluated. The 43.37% were female and 56.63% male, mean age was 50.71 while the range most represented (22.7%) was between 61->70 years. The purposes of our survey were to investigate these 83 patients enrolled in the study and to deeply examine 20 (24.10%) patients that developed a new echinococcal cyst. Moreover, the causes at the basis of the onset of a new cyst were analysed, together with a possible correlation with different treatments related to primary infection corresponding to surgery (n=7), albendazole (n=6), PAIR (n=3) and watch and wait (n=4). A possible link with medical treatments of the primary infection was observed in the subjects who underwent surgery or PAIR and a likely correlation attributable to high environmental contamination in subjects managed with drugs or watch and wait was detected. Moreover, our analysis evidenced that patients with a new infection presented a more severe diagnosis along with a major mortality rate. Finally, these data may have an important contribution for an epidemiological point of view concerning the percentage of CE in a specific geographical endemic area, such as Sardinia.

Hydatid Cyst at Unusual Location (Spleen) - A Case Report

Echinococcosis or Hydatid disease is a zoonosis endemic in agricultural areas of the world. It is caused by tapeworm of genus Echinococcus excreted in the faeces of infected dogs. Most common site of involvement is liver (50-77%) followed by lungs (18-35%), abdominal cavity and brain. Splenic hydatid cyst is a rare entity constituting 0.5 - 4% of abdominal hydatid disease. We report a case of 62 yrs old female who presented with vague abdominal pain and vomiting. Her abdominal CECT revealed a cystic lesion with peripheral calcified foci at lower pole of spleen. All other investigations were normal except for raised serum echinococcus IgG levels. Splenectomy specimen was received and histopathological examination confirmed it as hydatid cyst. Microscopy showed outer acellular laminated membrane, inner germinal layer with scolices along with eosinophilic inflammatory infiltrate. Patients presenting with hydatid disease are usually asymptomatic or can have vague abdominal pain. The disease is associated with recurrences, fatal anaphylaxis if neglected and high morbidity and mortality, therefore it should be considered as a differential for any cystic mass found in any part of the body.

What are the Strategies for Controlling Hydatid Cysts in Developing Countries?

Hydatid cysts (HC), caused by the tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus, pose a significant public health challenge in many developing countries. These cysts primarily affect livestock, such as sheep, cattle, and goats, but can also infect humans, the two most important forms in humans are cystic echinococcosis (hydatidosis) and alveolar echinococcosis, leading to serious health complications. Control measures for HC are crucial to lessen the impact on both human and animal health. This editorial explores the possible strategies for controlling HC in developing countries, focusing on prevention, surveillance, treatment, and community education [1,2]. Preventing HC in developing countries may require a multifaceted approach. One crucial aspect is controlling the transmission of Echinococcus eggs from infected animals to humans. This involves implementing measures such as deworming programs for livestock, proper disposal of infected animal carcasses, and promoting good hygiene practices among livestock handlers and population Furthermore, community education plays a vital role in preventing HC. Educating individuals about the risks associated with handling infected animals, the importance of proper hand hygiene, and the benefits of cooking meat thoroughly can help reduce the transmission of the parasite [2]. Effective surveillance is essential for monitoring the prevalence of HC and identifying high-risk areas in developing countries. Surveillance systems should involve regular screening of both livestock and humans for Echinococcus infection. This can be achieved through the use of diagnostic tests such as serological assays and imaging techniques like ultrasound. Additionally, active surveillance programs can help detect outbreaks early and facilitate timely intervention measures. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and veterinary professionals are crucial for establishing robust surveillance systems in resource-limited settings [3, 4]. Treating HC in developing countries often presents challenges due to limited access to healthcare resources and diagnostic tools. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications such as cyst rupture and dissemination. Surgical intervention remains the primary treatment option for HC, involving the removal of the cysts and surrounding tissue. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques such as puncture–aspiration–injection–re-aspiration (PAIR) may be used as an alternative to surgery, particularly in resource-limited settings. In addition to medical treatment, access to safe and effective anthelmintic drugs is crucial for controlling HC. Ensuring the availability of these medications and training healthcare providers in their appropriate use are essential components of treatment strategies in developing countries [5,6]. Educating communities about HC, their transmission, and prevention measures might play a significant role in sustainable control efforts. This can be achieved through various educational initiatives, including workshops, community outreach programs, and the distribution of educational materials. Furthermore, engaging with local community leaders and healthcare providers can facilitate the adoption of preventive measures within communities. Emphasizing the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and proper hygiene practices can empower individuals to take proactive steps in protecting themselves and their livestock from HC. In conclusion, controlling HC in developing countries requires a comprehensive approach that addresses prevention, surveillance, treatment, and community education. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, community stakeholders, and the scientific community However, extensive research and investigations in this regard are highly recommended.

Echinococcus granulosus comparative genotyping in sheep in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), which is triggered by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus, is a global zoonotic disease that is common in rural regions in which there are frequent encounters between dogs and other domestic animals. The disease can have devastating consequences, impacting the health of people and animals and leading to huge financial losses, especially in the agricultural industry. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Egypt, despite the high incidence of disease, few investigations have been conducted into the genetic variation in species of the genus Echinococcus. This study sought to compare the genetic features of the hydatid cysts carried in sheep in KSA with those found in Egypt. DNA from the protoscolices was used in a PCR targeting the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 1 (NAD1), cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1), and nuclear actin II (ACT II) genes, and the resulting amplification products of 30 KSA and Egyptian isolates were sequenced and compared. Among the sheep in KSA, the overall prevalence of CE was 0.51%. Of the sheep cyst DNA samples, 95%, 100%, and 52% were positive for the Cox1, nad1, and act II genes, respectively. Targeting all three genes, all KSA samples belonged to the E. granulosus genotype (G1), whereas all Egyptian isolates belonged to E. granulosus (G1) and E. canadensis (G6). We conclude that isolates of E. granulosus from the two countries shared a common origin in Arabic North Africa, with sheep and camels as common hosts.

Portal Vein and Superior Mesenteric Vein Invasion of Hydatid Cyst of The Liver: Surgical Treatment Option

Hydatid cyst is a parasitic infestation by a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus granulosus which can be localized in all vascularized tissues and causes cystic lesions. We present a case of hydatid liver cyst with portal vein and superior mesenteric artery invasion. Hydatid cysts are still commonly seen in Turkey. We believe that the most efficacious and least morbid treatment alternative for such rare complications of hydatid cysts is surgery.

An incidental diagnosis of an unusually located echinococcus alveolaris.

Hydatid cyst disease is a zoonotic infection caused by the genus Echinococcus. Hydatid cysts are usually located in the liver or lungs whereas the brain is an unusual location. A 45-year-old male patient was diagnosed with an intracranial mass suggesting a metastasis in the frontal region shown in the cranial computed tomography (CT) scan following a cranial trauma. The histological evaluation revealed an acellular laminated lesion surrounded with reactive changes, compatible with a cuticle. These findings were evaluated in favour of a hydatid cyst caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. Alveolar echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the genus Echinococcus multilocularis. Hydatid cyst is a common public health issue in the countries where livestock farming is common. Primary or metastatic tumours and abscesses should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hydatid cysts regardless of their location.

Status of human cystic echinococcosis based on hospital records in Mazandaran Province: A first registry-based evidence

BackgroundHuman cystic echinococcosis, as an emerging neglected parasitic disease, is caused by tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus spp. Because of the medical and economic importance, this study aims to review the epidemiology and clinical features of hydatidosis in patients admitted to medical and surgical wards in three referral teaching hospitals over 15 years in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. MethodsData were collected from hospital records that were accessible via the hospital information system (HIS) between 2005 and 2019 (15 years).The demographic information (age, sex, living area, and occupation), dog contact, number of the cysts, types of organs involved, and history of disease recurrence were assessed. ResultsOne hundred twenty-one patients with human cystic echinococcosis (CE) were involved in the study, from whom 58 patients (47.93%) were male and 63 (52.07%) were female. The majority of patients were rural residents (64.46%) and also housewife (28.10%). Based on the results, only about 16.53% of the patients had history of close contacts with dogs. The liver was the organ involved in the most cases of CE. There were statistically significant differences between residence, occupation, history of close contacts with dogs, type of organs involved, number of cysts and history of disease recurrence (P < 0.05). ConclusionsOur data provides valuable registry-based information about CE in an endemic region. The data highlights that most patients lived in rural areas and were housewives. Additionally, they had a low rate of disease recurrence but a high rate of close contact with dogs. Moreover, further monitoring on registry-based program and strengthening the HIS in the provincial hospitals in the studied area are required.

IgG glycomic profiling identifies potential biomarkers for diagnosis of echinococcosis

Echinococcosis caused by larval stage of the genus Echinococcus, is a serious and potentially fatal parasitic zoonosis distributed globally. The two types of the disease in human are cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE). As the biological and encysting characteristics of the parasite, early diagnosis remains to address. In the present study, we demonstrate the value of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) glycome as a potential diagnostic biomarker for echinococcosis. Serum IgG glycome profiles were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography in a cohort comprised of 127 echinococcosis patients, of them 98 were diagnosed as CE and 29 as AE. IgG N-glycome analysis in pretreatment serum of echinococcosis patients presents 25 glycans and 64 derived traits. Compared with IgG glycans of healthy control group, neutral glycans, fucosylation and agalactosylated N-glycans increased while sialylation and galactosylation decreased in echinococcosis patients. Combined with a machine-learning-based approach, we built three biomarker combinations to distinguish CE, AE and healthy controls. Meanwhile, galactosylation, sialylation and A2BG2S1 in IgG glycan profiles were evidently associated with different types of CE (from CE1 to CE5). Our findings suggest that the alterations in IgG N-glycome may be of value in CE and AE diagnosis and follow-up CE disease progress. The role of IgG N-glycans as diagnostic biomarker remains to be verified in future study.

Effectiveness Evaluation of Viti's vinifera Leaf Extract on the Viability of Echinococcus Eggs and Protoscolices In Vitro.

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the genus Echinococcus. Globally, it is one of the most central helminthic diseases. Surgery remains the method of choice to remove cystic Echinococcus. Various sporicidal agents have been used to invalidate the substances in hydatid cysts. Nevertheless, many sporicidal agents cause inflammation and can cause side complications, so their use should be limited. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Vitis vinifera leaf methanolic extract as a sporicidal agent for Echinococcus eggs and protoscolices and determines the best concentration. The mortality and viability of protoscolices were measured in samples exposed to four concentrations of V. vinifera leaf extract (VVLE) (5, 10, 30, and 50 mg/mL) for 5, 10, 20, and 30 min and in eggs exposed to three concentrations (100, 200, and 300 mg/mL) for 24 and 48 h. An infrared spectroscopy chemical test was conducted to assess the presence of numerous expected active components in the extract. The viability of eggs and protoscolices was confirmed using 0.1% eosin staining. Vinifera leaf extract exhibited the decisive sporicidal effect at 100%, 91%, 60%, and 41% after 30 min at concentrations of 50, 30, 10, and 5 mg/mL, and in eggs at 11% and 19% after 24 and 48 h at a concentration of 200 mg/mL, respectively. Increased incubation times and higher dosages often increase mortality. The results exhibited that V. vinifera is effective. This study confirmed that grape leaf extract has high sporicidal activity in vitro. However, more studies are required to determine the exact active chemical and its action mechanism and perform in vivo utilization to confirm these results.

Molecular Screening of Echinococcus spp. and Other Cestodes in Wild Carnivores from Central Italy.

Tapeworm infections are among the most relevant parasitic diseases in humans and animals. Tapeworms from the Genus Echinococcus are particularly important as they can cause cystic or alveolar echinococcosis. A molecular screening was performed on 279 fecal samples collected from carcasses of wild carnivores from Central Italy using PCR targeting diagnostic fragments of nad1, rrnS, and nad5 genes. Samples positive for either Taenia spp. or Echinococcus granulosus were sequenced to taxonomically identify the parasitic DNA. Of the 279 samples, 134 (48.0%) gave positive results in the multiplex PCR. Only one (0.4%) sample from an Apennine wolf tested positive for Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (genotype G3), whereas no sample tested positive for E. multilocularis. The most frequently detected tapeworms were: Mesocestoides corti (syn M. vogae) (12.9%), M. litteratus (10.8%), Taenia serialis (9.3%), and T. hydatigena (6.5%), other tapeworms were rarely detected. The results suggest that Echinococcus infections in Central Italy do not seem to be sustained by sylvatic cycles, confirming the absence of E. multilocularis in Central Italy. The survey corroborates, yet again, the importance of passive surveillance of wild animals that can serve as reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens, especially on wild canids that in other areas are strongly implicated in the transmission of E. granulosus and E. multilocularis.

Multimodal Treatment of Cystic Echinococcosis

Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease that is caused by the larval stages of cestodes species and belongs to the genus Echinococcus. Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) causes cystic echinococcosis which is global and wider in its distribution than alveolar echinococcosis. Endemic areas of E. granulosus are Russia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, China, and South America based on data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Incidence rates are 50 per 100,000 person-years. The life cycle of E. granulosus requires both an intermediate host and a definitive host. A human accidentally becomes an intermediate host. Upon infection, cyst formation mostly occurs in the liver (70%). At the first, the infection is usually asymptomatic. Diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis can be done by imaging techniques (ultrasound or CT/MRI), serum serologic testing for antibodies against hydatid antigens, and immunologic testing. In general, there are four different management modalities for cystic echinococcosis, such as surgery, percutaneous therapy surgery, chemotherapy, and watchful waiting.

Molecular characterization of Echinococcus canadensis (Cestoda, Taenidae) in wolf from the Kirov region

The molecular characteristics of parasitic tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus were studied. Helminths were discovered during the autopsy of a wolf ( Canis lupus Linnaeus, 1758), hunted in the Kirov region in October of 2021. Molecular phylogenetic study was performed by analyzing the sequence of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene. It was found that the obtained helminths belong to the G10 E. canadensis genotype, which is common in wolves in the northern territories of the Holarctic. Four positions were found for which substitutions characteristic only for this genotype are identified. A substitution was also found for one of the positions, which is characteristic only for representatives of the G10 genotype found in Russia and Finland.

Histopathological Study to Evaluate the Effect of Aqueous Extract of Portunuspelagicus and Mebendazole on Hydatid Cysts in Mice.

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infestation by a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus sp., which has a global distribution. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the crustacean aqueous extract of Portunuspelagicus for 2 weeks of treatment compared to mebendazole on hydatid cyst in laboratory mice male Balb / C strain. Mice were infected intraperitoneally with 2000 protoscolices. After 12 weeks of infection, each mouse was treated with mebendazole (50mg/kg) and the hot aqueous extract of p. pelagicus (8, 16 g/kg). Samples of infected organs (liver, spleen, and lungs) were examined under a microscope to evaluate the morphological and histopathological changes of hydatid cysts and tissues. The study confirmed macroscopically that there were a number of hydatid cysts of different sizes in the liver, spleen, and lungs, splenomegaly, and congestion of the lungs of the positive control group. The histological changes in the organs of the group treated with the crustacean extract were represented by the vacuolation of hepatocytes in the centrilobular area of the liver. At the same time, the lungs show intensive peri-bronchiolar inflammation, pulmonary vascular congestion, and in the spleen, the deposition of amyloid-like material in the white pulp, extramedullary hematopoiesis, While the histopathological changes in the organs of mice treated with mebendazole, were represented by the presence in the mild liver vacuolation of the centrilobular area. In contrast, the lungs show mild pulmonary vascular congestion and emphysema, and the spleen shows normal white pulp, the normal red pulp of mice. The aqueous extract Portunuspelagicus and mebendazole are effective in controlling the contamination in the intermediate hosts.

Anatomical-Based Imaging of Cystic Echinococcosis and Review of the Current Literature.

Echinococcosis is a zoonosis caused by cestodes of the genus Echinococcus. This serious disease continues to be an important public health problem as it is endemic in many parts of the world. Cystic disease affects many organs in the body, most commonly the liver. Hydatid disease can cause a diverse spectrum of symptoms, from asymptomatic infection to potential death. In the presence of clinical suspicion, the diagnosis is made by serology and imaging methods. Imaging findings can range from completely cystic lesions to completely solid appearance and calcification. The imaging method to be used depends on the involved organ and the stage of the cyst. The updated recommendations of the World Health Organization-Echinococcosis Informal Working Group for the stage and treatment of human echinococcosis have had important implications. Accordingly, there are 4 approaches to the clinical management of hydatid disease: surgery, percutaneous techniques and drug therapy for active cysts, and a "watch and wait" approach for inactive cysts. Since it directly affects the treatment, it is necessary to be familiar with the imaging findings of the cyst, especially in endemic areas.

Evaluation of scolicidal potential of salicylate coated zinc nanoparticles against Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by larval stages of the Echinococcus genus (metastasis). In this study, salicylate-coated Zinc oxide nanoparticles (SA-ZnO-NPs) were fabricated and characterized by SEM, FTIR and XRD analytical techniques. After that, different doses of SA-ZnO-NPs, SA and ZnO-NPs were taken to assess scolicidal potency. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs were also used to evaluate the morphological deformities of treated protoscoleces. Furthermore, Caspase-3&7 inductions were examined in protoscoleces cysts treated with all formulations. Based on SEM and DLS analyses, the size of SA-ZnO-NPs was between 30 and 40 nm, with a spherical shape. The FTIR spectrum verified the presence of SA functional groups on the ZnO coating. At 20 min, SA-ZnO-NPs at 2000 μg/ml exhibited the greatest activity on protoscolices with 100% mortality, followed by ZnO-NPs at 1500 μg/ml at 10 min and SA alone at 2000 μg/ml at 30 min. The activation of Caspase-3&7 apoptotic enzyme was determined for 2000 μg/ml of SA-ZnO-NPs, ZnO-NPs and SA to be 16.4, 31.4, and 35.7%, respectively. The SEM image revealed apoptogenic alterations and the induction of tegument surface wrinkles, as well as abnormalities in rostellum protoscolices. According to the current study, SA-ZnO-NPs have a high mortality rate against hydatid cyst protoscolices. As a result, further studies on the qualitative assessment of these nanoformulations in vivo and preclinical animal trials seem to be required. Furthermore, the adoption of nano-drugs potentially offers alternative therapeutic approaches to combat hydatid cysts.