What is Microbiology - Hydatid Cyst Disease

​Hydatid Cyst Disease

Hydatid cyst disease is caused by Echinococcus granulosus which is a segmented flatworm. 

The common mode of transmission is via ingestion of the eggs in contaminated water and food. The water and food are contaminated with dog feces. Dog ( definitive host) which get infected by eating sheep ( sheep is an intermediate host).

Echinococcus granulosus infection can be detected via serological testing. Echinococcus granulosus consists of 3 proglottids with a scolex.

Patient may develop hydatid cyst in the liver, brain and lung which can be detected via CT scan or X Ray. The hydatid cyst may rupture which lead to anaphylactic reaction and dissemination of infectious protoscoleces.

Ingestion of eggs may lead to the development of the embryos which present in the intestinal cells and enter the blood system. 

The hydatid cyst / fluid filled cyst will form from a larvae which develop in the tissue.  Hydatid cyst consist of capsule filled with protoscoleces. 

The treatment may include surgical removal of the hydatid cyst. The medication such as albendazole is also given.