Echinococcus
Alternative Names
Hydatidosis; Hydatid disease, Hydatid cyst diseaseTreatment
Many patients can be successfully treated with albendazole or mebendazole, which must often be used in long courses of up to three months. Another drug, praziquantel, may be helpful in combination with albendazole or mebendazole.
If the cysts are in troublesome locations, the definitive treatment is to remove them surgically if the patient's condition permits the procedure. This can be a complicated type of surgery.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The probable outcome is good for people with cysts that respond to oral medication treatment.
Possible Complications
The cysts may rupture and cause severe illness, including fever, low blood pressure, and shock. In such cases, the cysts may also disperse and cause widespread disease throughout the body.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of this disorder develop.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.