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Hepatic Echinococcosis (Liver Hydatid Disease)

Cystic hydatid disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus larvae in the liver

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Hepatic Echinococcosis (Liver Hydatid Disease)?

Hepatic echinococcosis (hydatid cyst) is a zoonotic infection in which oral ingestion of Echinococcus granulosus eggs allows larval establishment in the liver, where slow-growing cystic lesions form. The liver is the most commonly involved organ, but lung, bone, and brain involvement can also occur.

Transmission usually occurs via water and vegetables contaminated with dog feces and through inadequate hand hygiene. Farming, livestock work, and close contact with dogs are major risk factors. Turkey is among the endemic countries.

Cysts may remain silent for years and are often detected incidentally. Mass effect, secondary infection, biliary fistula, rupture, and anaphylaxis are the main complications. Treatment combines surgery, PAIR (percutaneous aspiration), and drug therapy.

Symptoms

Right upper quadrant fullness and pain
Slowly developing abdominal swelling
Nausea and loss of appetite
Jaundice when biliary obstruction develops
Anaphylaxis if a cyst ruptures
Urticaria and eosinophilia
Fever and signs of secondary infection

Risk Factors

Close contact with dogs and farm animals
Living in endemic rural regions
Inadequate hand and water hygiene
Consumption of unwashed vegetables and fruits
Animal slaughter and offal handling work
Early childhood exposure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a slowly enlarging abdominal mass is noticed
  • Unexplained right upper quadrant pain
  • When jaundice and pruritus appear
  • Cystic lesion incidentally detected on imaging
  • Sudden severe abdominal pain with anaphylaxis

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical resection in selected cases
02
PAIR (percutaneous aspiration-injection-reaspiration)
03
Albendazole or mebendazole therapy
04
Pre- and postoperative antiparasitic prophylaxis
05
Multidisciplinary approach in complicated cases
06
Hygiene education and animal control

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.