Curriculum · Public Health and Communicable Diseases
Hydatid disease (echinococcosis)
What it is
Hydatid disease in humans is caused by the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus. Dogs are the definitive host.
How it presents
It is usually asymptomatic if the cyst is small in size, under 10 cm in diameter. If the cysts become large, hepatomegaly can result, with or without right upper quadrant pain, nausea and vomiting.
How it is diagnosed
Serological testing for antigen and antibodies together with imaging, US being the initial test.