Alveolar hydatid disease

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Alveolar Hydatid Disease (pronounced: al-vee-uh-lar hi-dat-id disease) is a rare but serious parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis.

Etymology

The term "Alveolar" is derived from the Latin word "alveolus" meaning small cavity, referring to the honeycomb-like appearance of the lesions caused by the disease. "Hydatid" comes from the Greek word "hydatid" meaning a small drop of water, referring to the fluid-filled cysts formed by the parasite.

Symptoms

The disease primarily affects the liver, but can spread to other organs such as the lungs and brain. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Alveolar Hydatid Disease is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, and confirmed by serological tests.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery and long-term antiparasitic therapy. In some cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.

Epidemiology

Alveolar Hydatid Disease is most common in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in rural areas where dogs and wild canids come into contact with rodents, the intermediate hosts of Echinococcus multilocularis.

Prevention

Prevention strategies include regular deworming of dogs and other canids, and avoiding contact with wild animals.

See Also

External links

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