Echinococcosis (tapeworm)

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  • Echinococcosis (tapeworm)

Etiology

  • Main host is cattle and dogs
  • Eggs ingested by humans → travel to liver

Risk Factors

  • Found in Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East; Central, South, and North America
  • Exposure via working w/sheep/dogs, consumption of soil/water/food (containing eggs) contaminated w/feces from infected animals

Symptoms

  • Cysts form in liver & can cause RUQ pain→ compress biliary tract; if cysts, rupture can cause anaphylaxis

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