Echinococcosis Research Articles

Spinal hydatid disease-A case report: An uncommon differential diagnosis in LMICs

Background and Importance: With a 0.2–1% incidence, spinal hydatid disease is a very uncommon diagnosis. While it is uncommon in affluent nations, it should be taken into account when making a differential diagnosis for spinal cord compression syndrome, particularly in regions where it is prevalent. Case Presentation: We report a case of hydatid illness of the spine. A 52-year-old man presented with lower extremity discomfort and spastic paraparesis, trouble urinating, and back pain and edema. He had at the level of the 12th thoracic to third lumbar vertebrae (Th12-L3) with paraspinal extension. The patient was treated with four months of antiparasitic therapy and two surgical resections performed by general surgeons. Histological analysis showed pieces of fibrous tissue exhibiting granulomatous inflammation; however, no evidence of acid-resistant bacteria or PAS-positive chitin membrane was found. The existence of bacteria following therapy has not been confirmed by the parasitological investigation of the lesions. Clinical discussion: Primary spinal hydrodatidosis is a rare condition that affects about 0.2–1% of the population. Conclusion: Due to rarity of this disease, early discovery and timely treatment are critical, and this diagnosis should be considered when generating a differential diagnosis for spinal cord compression syndrome.

Case Report: An exceptional localisation in the thigh of a giant primary subcutaneous hydatid cyst.

Hydatid disease is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus and is found globally. Although the liver and lungs are the most prevalent sites of involvement, sub-cutaneous hydatid cysts are rare especially in the primary occurrence. Sub-cutaneous hydatid cysts usually are noticed as slow growing, painless, and mobile masses beneath the overlying skin which is usually normal and are generally found on the trunk and proximal extremities. To the best of our knowledge, very few cases of primary subcutaneous hydatid cysts of the thigh have been documented. We present a case of a 30-year-old woman from a rural setting, who has a large, painless swelling on her thigh. Imaging studies confirmed the presence of a primary subcutaneous hydatid cyst, which is an atypical presentation of the disease. The entire lesion was excised surgically without any evidence of recurrence for a long period postoperatively. This case illustrates the difficulty in establishing a diagnosis and the importance of early surgical management in these cases.

Presence of Echinococcus eggs in the environment and food: a review of current data and future prospects.

Cystic and alveolar echinococcosis are considered the second and third most significant foodborne parasitic diseases worldwide. The microscopic eggs excreted in the feces of the definitive host are the only source of contamination for intermediate and dead-end hosts, including humans. However, estimating the respective contribution of the environment, fomites, animals or food in the transmission of Echinococcus eggs is still challenging. Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis seem to have a similar survival capacity regarding temperature under laboratory conditions. In addition, field experiments have reported that the eggs can survive several weeks to years outdoors, with confirmation of the relative susceptibility of Echinococcus eggs to desiccation. Bad weather (such as rain and wind), invertebrates and birds help scatter Echinococcus eggs in the environment and may thus impact human exposure. Contamination of food and the environment by taeniid eggs has been the subject of renewed interest in the past decade. Various matrices from endemic regions have been found to be contaminated by Echinococcus eggs. These include water, soil, vegetables and berries, with heterogeneous rates highlighting the need to acquire more robust data so as to obtain an accurate assessment of the risk of human infection. In this context, it is essential to use efficient methods of detection and to develop methods for evaluating the viability of eggs in the environment and food.

Correlation of Serodiagnosis with Morphological Verification of Cystic Echinococcosis, and the Association of Patients' Blood Types with Echinococcus Invasion

A retrospective analysis was carried out in 110 patients with echinococcosis of the liver and lungs operated on in various hospitals of the Russian Federation, in whom the diagnosis of Cystic Echinococcosis was morphologically verified (intra-vitam). According to the study, clinical and epidemiological features were identified: main factors predisposing to echinococcus invasion, average duration of medical history before visiting a doctor, main clinical symptom complex; the correlation between the blood type of patients according to the AB0 system and the average European blood type was shown: significant differences were obtained for III(B) and IV(AB) blood types (p<0.05). In addition, the role of serological diagnosis of echinococcosis as an auxiliary, the effectiveness of which in the Russian Federation for cysts of type CE1 (according to the WHO-IWGE classification) reaches 71%.

The unusual location of primary hydatid cyst: A case series study.

Cystic echinococcosis mainly affects the liver and lungs, in which the larvae from the microvascular wall in the liver pass to the lungs and then to the blood circulation and settle in any tissue or organ. The objective of this study was to report the unusual location of hydatid cysts in infected patients in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq. This retrospective case series study enrolled 13 patients. They underwent a surgical operation to excise their cyst after confirmed diagnosis with blood investigations, electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (when needed). After the operation, the cyst was confirmed with histopathological examination, and patients were advised to take an Albendazole tablet. Most patients were females from rural areas, with a mean age of 38.93 ± 14.4 years. Patients presented with cysts on the skin of the anterior abdominal wall, gluteal region, mesenteric area, pericardium, tibia bone meta diaphysis, right inguinal region, right thigh, skin of the anterior neck, spleen, left suprarenal gland, right breast, and the iliopsoas muscle. The hydatid cyst can affect any body part with no site immune and often produces nonspecific symptoms.

Brucellosis Coinfecting with Liver Hydatid Cyst: Case Report and Literature Review of Zoonoses Coinfection of Human Brucellosis.

Background: Brucellosis is a major global public health problem. Brucellosis usually coinfects with zoonoses because of their similar reservoir and infection routes. Materials and Methods: Here, we present a patient who was diagnosed with coinfecting with liver cyst and brucellosis. Results: A 57-year-old female farmer was hospitalized with right hip joint pain approximately 4 weeks earlier. The patient reported a history of hydatid cysts and a family history of brucellosis. Abdominal computerized tomography and ultrasonography revealed a liver hydatid cyst. The standard agglutination test titer of Wright's test was 1:100. Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed brucellosis hip arthritis. The patient was treated with a combination of doxycycline, rifampicin, and cefotaxime. The symptoms immediately improved. The patient was well and asymptomatic during the 6-month follow-up. We reviewed the literature on other zoonoses superinfection with brucellosis. Conclusion: Brucellosis coinfects with multiple zoonosis organisms and poses a serious health threat to humans. Awareness of possible brucellosis coinfection with other zoonoses, especially professionally exposed persons in endemic regions, is warranted.

Anaphylatic Shock during Surgery for Hydatid Cyst of the Liver

Anaphylatic Shock during Surgery for Hydatid Cyst of the Liver

Comparison of the frequency of complications resulting from open and laparoscopic surgery for hydatid cyst.

Hydatid cyst is a benign parasitic disease that is usually asymptomatic and is discovered incidentally. The gold standard for the treatment of this disease is surgery. Recently, a laparoscopic approach has been used to remove hydatid cysts. We decided to compare this new technique with an open conventional method. Patients-This retrospective analytical study was conducted on patients with hepatic hydatid cysts who underwent surgery in Kashan during 2013-2020. A total of 58 patients were included in this study, 18 of whom underwent laparoscopic surgery and 40 underwent open surgery. The comparison of the two groups was performed using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. The average duration of surgery in the laparoscopic and open surgery groups was 135 and 151.6 min, respectively, which was not statistically significant (p-value = .179). There was no significant difference in terms of the need for blood transfusion, conversion of laparoscopic surgery to open surgery, anaphylactic shock, infection, and death between the two groups (p > .05). However, the laparoscopic surgery group had a significantly shorter hospital stay compared with the open surgery group (p-value < .001), and more favorite patients. Considering the lack of significant difference between the two surgical methods and the reduction in the duration of surgery by a laparoscopic approach, the reduction in hospital stay of patients, and consequently the reduction in the cost of patients, it is expected that this method is a more suitable method compared with open surgery.

Analysis of Complications of a Neglected Disease: 13 Years of Experience with Liver Hydatid Cysts in a High-Volume Hospital

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical presentation, treatment outcomes, and complications associated with hepatic hydatid cysts in a pediatric population. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 214 pediatric patients with liver hydatid cysts, focusing on clinical presentation, treatment outcomes, and associated complications. Patients were classified based on treatment modality, including non-operative management with albendazole, PAIR, and surgical intervention. This study compared cyst characteristics, recurrence rates, and complications such as cysto-biliary fistulas. Results: Among the patients, 68% (n = 145) had a single cyst and 86% (n = 184) were found to have isolated liver cysts. No significant statistical difference was observed between Group 1 and Group 2 in terms of age, gender, and basic laboratory values and general characteristics of the cysts, such as the lobe where the cyst was located, involvement of multiple organs, number of cysts, the state of cyst rupture, and recurrence; no statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p &gt; 0.05 for each comparison). Cyst rupture incidence was 6%, and the average incidence of recurrence was 2%, with a surgical recurrence incidence of 3%. A total of 37 patients had a laparotomy, while 7 had laparoscopic surgery. In total, capitonnage was performed in 68 patients, omentopexy in 4, and cystostomy in 6. Consequently, among the treated patients (PAIR + surgery), the incidence of cysto-biliary fistula was 11%, anaphylaxis was 2%, surgical recurrence was 3%, and the incidence of reoperation (Clavien–Dindo ≥ 3) was 6%. The average follow-up period was 72 months, during which no mortality was observed. Conclusions: We identified key clinical outcomes related to both non-surgical treatments (cyst rupture and recurrence) and surgical groups (cysto-biliary fistulas, anaphylaxis, the need for reoperation, rupture, and recurrence).

Cystic Echinococcosis in Paediatric Refugees: A Case Series.

Cystic Echinococcosis in Paediatric Refugees: A Case Series.

Case Report : Undifferentiated Synovial Sarcoma Presenting as a Large Thoracic Mass: A Rare and Challenging Diagnosis

Background: Undifferentiated synovial sarcoma (USS) is a rare and aggressive subtype of soft tissue sarcoma. Its presentation as a large thoracic mass poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.  Case Presentation: A 34-year-old male presented with a three-month history of progressive chest pain and hemoptysis. Imaging studies revealed a large, cystic thoracic mass with pleural effusion. Initial serological testing suggested hydatid cyst, but subsequent testing revealed negative Echinococcus (Hydatid) IgG antibodies.  Diagnostic and Therapeutic Interventions: Repeat fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was deferred due to revised ultrasound findings indicating a solid fibrocystic vascular lesion. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) was performed to control life- threatening hemorrhage. Thoracotomy and en-bloc mass excision were subsequently undertaken.  Histopathological Diagnosis: Histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed undifferentiated synovial sarcoma and spindle cell sarcoma.  Clinical Implications: This case highlights the importance of correlating imaging and serological findings, managing vascular complications, and the efficacy of BAE in controlling hemorrhage. The significance of thoracotomy and mass excision in achieving diagnostic clarity and therapeutic success is underscored.  Conclusion: Undifferentiated synovial sarcoma presenting as a large thoracic mass poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. A multidisciplinary approach, incorporating imaging, serological testing, and surgical intervention, is crucial for achieving optimal patient outcomes.

The Role of Diffusion-Weighted MRI in Correlation with Contrast-Enhanced MRI and Histopathology in the Evaluation of Focal Liver Lesions.

Accurate diagnosis of focal liver lesions is of utmost importance for theinitiation ofappropriate treatment. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in diagnosing focal liver lesions, specifically focusing on differentiating between benign and malignant lesions, distinguishing metastases from primary liver tumors, and identifying various types of both benign and malignant lesions.. The study design is that of a prospective observational study done on 28 cases withfocal liver lesions detected on ultrasound. DWI was done followed by contrast-enhanced MRI (CE-MRI). Identification of the lesion on DWI and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map was madeby using the CE-MRI images as a guide. The signal intensity of the lesion on DWI is determined as either diffusion restriction or no restriction. ADC measurementswere made quantitatively over various regions of interest (ROIs) of the focal liver lesion. All the lesions were confirmed by histopathological examination (HPE) except few benign lesions like simple cysts and few hemangiomas, which were followed up by ultrasonography after six months. Our study included 28 patients with 44 focal liver lesions. Out of 28 patients in this study group (n=28), there were a total of 17 male and 11 female patients. The mean age of the sample population was 50.89±13.40 years. The lesions were more commonly seen is the age group of 41-60 years (57.14%). Out of 44 lesions(n),24 (54.5%) lesionswere benign , 20 (45.45%) were malignant. There were 17 hemangiomas (38.6%), 2 hematomas (4.5%), 2 simple cysts (4.5%), 1 hydatid cyst (2.27%), 2 hepatic adenomas (4.5%), 16 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (36.36%), 3 cholangiocarcinoma (6.8%), and 1 hepatoblastoma (2.27%). DWI has 85% sensitivity and 84.7% specificity for the differentiation of benign from malignant lesions. The mean ADC value of benign lesions was 1.83x10-3mm2/s and the mean ADC of malignant liver lesions was 0.96x10-3mm2/s. In the present study, the average cut off of mean ADC to differentiate benign and malignant bone lesions is 1.3x10-3 mm2/s, with statistically significant p value of 0.001, sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 83.3%. DWI is a valuable imaging technique in the evaluation of focal liver lesions. The ability to differentiate between benign and malignant liver lesions without the need for contrast is a significant benefit, particularly in challenging cases involving uncooperative patients or when contrast administration is contraindicated.

Cystic cardiac myxoma: a rare variant of cardiac myxoma in a woman with acute stroke

BackgroundCardiac myxomas are the most common primary benign tumors of the heart usually presenting as an oval mass attached to the interatrial septum. Mild heterogenous enhancement is typically seen upon contrast administration. Myxomas are benign, however can present with embolic episodes necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment.Case presentationA middle-aged woman presenting with acute ischemic stroke was detected to have a complex cystic mass in the left atrium on echocardiography. Further evaluation with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging narrowed a differential diagnosis to hemangioma, hemangioendothelioma, sarcoma, hydatid cysts, bronchogenic cysts, and cystic variant of cardiac myxoma. CTA demonstrated arterial supply from the left circumflex artery supplying the lesion. Following surgical excision, histopathology analysis suggested a cystic cardiac myxoma with secondary degeneration.ConclusionCystic masses in the heart are challenging to diagnose due to similar imaging characteristics, and misdiagnosis may lead to further major downstream complications such as stroke, hemorrhage, and hemodynamic alterations causing syncope. Therefore, surgical excision of a cystic cardiac mass is justified to establish a definitive histopathological diagnosis and prevent further downstream complications. We hereby report a rare case of cystic cardiac myxoma in the left atrium showing intense progressive enhancement in CMR and CTA in a middle-aged woman presenting with acute stroke. This case highlights an exceedingly rare variant of cystic cardiac myxoma.

Proximity predicament: a rare case of hydatid cyst in the porta hepatis region

Hydatid cysts near the porta hepatis present notable medical challenges due to their intricate positioning and potential influence on crucial structures within the liver and its vicinity. While relatively rare, their presence can lead to intricate medical scenarios because of their proximity to vital liver and bile duct structures, but their occurrence can present complex medical situations due to their proximity to critical structures in the liver and bile ducts. We present an unusual case of a 33-year-old male with no known comorbidities presented to the outpatient department of general surgery with pain, insidious in onset and gradually progressive, in the right hypochondrial region for the past 3 months, along with mild fever, reduced appetite, and weight loss of 3 kg. Managing hepatic cysts, especially when near the porta hepatis, poses significant diagnostic challenges. Imaging scans revealed multiple hypodense lesions suggestive of hepatic cysts, with the largest one measuring 5 cm × 8 cm in segment VI. Native post-contrast lesions were also observed in the right lower lobe. Although hepatic duct dilation was not observed, the presence of a cyst near the porta hepatis an atypical site for hydatid cyst, complicated potential PAIR procedures (puncture, aspirate, injection, re-aspirate), raising concerns about the risk of damaging vital structures like the hepatic artery or major bile duct. A multidisciplinary approach engaged interventional radiology to evaluate PAIRS feasibility. PAIRS was performed successfully, except for the cyst near the porta hepatis to avoid complications. Despite this, the patient continued to experience abdominal discomfort post-operation, although liver function tests improved in the postop period. This case underscores the uncommon occurrence of hydatid cysts near the porta hepatis and highlights the need for additional research to comprehend its prevalence and causes. Further investigation is crucial to enhance our understanding of the epidemiology and optimal management strategies involving PAIRS in such challenging cases.

Non-Operative Treatment of Pancreatic Hydatid Cyst in Children

Non-Operative Treatment of Pancreatic Hydatid Cyst in Children

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.

Anti-echinococcal effect of metformin in advanced experimental cystic echinococcosis: reprogrammed intermediary carbon metabolism in the parasite.

Metformin, a safe biguanide derivative with antiproliferative properties, has shown antiparasitic efficacy against the Echinococcus larval stage. Hence, we assessed the efficacy of a dose of 250 mg kg-1 day-1 in experimental models of advanced CE, at 6 and 12 months post-infection with oral and intraperitoneal administration, respectively. At this high dose, metformin reached intracystic concentrations between 0.7 and 1.7 mM and triggered Eg-TOR inhibition through AMPK activation by AMP-independent and -dependent mechanisms, which are dependent on drug dose. Cystic metformin uptake was controlled by increased expression of organic cation transporters in the presence of the drug. In both experimental models, metformin reduced the weight of parasite cysts, altered the ultrastructural integrity of their germinal layers, and reduced the intracystic availability of glucose, limiting the cellular carbon and energy charge and the proliferative capacity of metacestodes. This glucose depletion in the parasite was associated with a slight increase in cystic uptake of 2-deoxiglucose and the transcriptional induction of GLUT genes in metacestodes. In this context, drastic glycogen consumption led to increased lactate production and altered intermediary metabolism in treated metacestodes. Specifically, the fraction of reducing soluble sugars decreased twofold, and the levels of non-reducing soluble sugars, such as sucrose and trehalose, were modified in both cystic fluid and germinal cells. Taken together, our findings highlight the relevance of metformin as a promising candidate for CE treatment and warrant further research to improve the therapeutic conditions of this chronic zoonosis in humans.

Management of a liver hydatid cyst patient who fistulized the diaphragm and subsequently presented with thorax rupture: a case report

Hydatid cysts, caused by Echinococcus species, are zoonotic diseases frequently observed in endemic regions worldwide, including Turkey. It is most commonly localized in the liver, followed by the lungs. Anaphylaxis and peritonitis, which develop after cyst rupture, are the most significant complications observed in these patients. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are extremely important. This study presented an extremely rare case of a hepatic hydatid cyst ruptured into the thorax, which may have high morbidity and mortality. A 24-year-old male patient presented to our emergency department with cough, dyspnea, fever, and allergy symptoms. He had a history of hepatic hydatid cyst surgery 5 years ago. Physical examination revealed urticarial lesions on the skin. The body temperature was 39 °C, and the pulse rate was 120 beats/min. Laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein. Contrast-enhanced thoracic and abdominal computed tomography was performed. Diagnostic tests revealed that the patient had a ruptured hepatic hydatid cyst in the right thoracic cavity; hence, he was scheduled for emergency surgery. Laparotomy was performed via a right subcostal incision, and the ruptured cyst was located. It was understood that this cyst had fistulized into the diaphragm during a chronic process and subsequently ruptured acutely into the thorax. Partial cystectomy was performed for a ruptured liver cyst. The diaphragm was repaired, and catheters were placed in the thorax and abdomen for drainage. There were no other postoperative complications. Rupture of hydatid cyst disease is frequently observed in endemic regions. The rupture of a hepatic hydatid cyst into the thorax is an extremely rare event. In patients presenting with pulmonary symptoms who have a history of hepatic hydatid cyst surgery, the abdomen should always be thoroughly evaluated, and emergency surgery should be performed if required.

Percutaneous Aspiration Injection and Re-aspiration as A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Spinal Cystic Echinococcosis: A Case Report.

Cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic disease with significant importance for public health in endemic regions. Spinal cystic echinococcosis, however, is a rare form that may lead to severe complications due to its localization. In this manuscript, we presented a 16-year-old male patient who admitted with abdominal and back edema for 2 months, evaluated with preliminary diagnoses of Pott's abscess and malignant mass, subsequently diagnosed with spinal cystic echinococcosis. It was concluded that cystic echinococcosis should be considered in differential diagnosis of large cystic masses and percutaneous aspiration, injection, reaspiration method might be a safe and effective treatment option particularly for cases of complicated spinal cystic echinococcosis.

Giant pedunculated liver hydatid cyst causing inferior vena cava syndrome: a case report

BackgroundHydatid disease is a zoonotic infection caused by the species Echinococcus that typically affects the liver. Most liver hydatid cysts are asymptomatic at first, but as the cyst grows larger, symptoms, such as compression effects, start to appear. Ultrasonography and computed tomography scans are the widely used diagnostic tools, and surgery is considered the mainstay of treatment.Case presentationWe present an unusual case of a giant pedunculated hydatid cyst causing inferior vena cava syndrome in a 20-year-old male patient from the Oromo ethnic group from a rural area of the country. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography scan confirmed the diagnosis. Our patient underwent radical surgical resection of the cyst and had a good outcome.ConclusionHydatid liver cyst diagnosis needs a high index of suspicion for echinococcal etiology when dealing with a giant liver cyst as it results in grave complications without any manifestations.