B67: Echinococcosis

Echinococcosis, also known as hydatid disease, is a group of parasitic diseases caused by the larvae of a tapeworm known as Echinococcus. People generally get infected by accidentally ingesting its microscopic eggs through contaminated food, water, or soil, or through direct contact with animal hosts. These eggs then develop into larvae inside the body, particularly in the liver and lungs, but potentially also affecting other organs. Over time, the larvae form slow-growing cysts which may go unnoticed for years because they often don't cause symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As these cysts grow, they can cause pain or discomfort and may lead to serious complications if they rupture. Symptoms of echinococcosis can therefore vary widely, depending on the size and location of the cysts, and may include abdominal pain, cough, and chest discomfort.