HYDATID CYSTS Meaning and
Definition
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Hydatid cysts are fluid-filled sacs formed by the larval stage of a tapeworm known as Echinococcus granulosus. These cysts are typically found in the liver and lungs of various animals, including humans.
The growth of hydatid cysts begins when a person ingests eggs of the tapeworm through the consumption of contaminated food or water. Once inside the body, the eggs hatch and release larvae that penetrate the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream. From there, they are transported to various organs, where they develop into cysts over a period of several months or years.
Hydatid cysts can vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. They are composed of an outer fibrous layer, known as the pericyst, which protects the inner germinal layer. The germinal layer produces numerous protoscolices, small fluid-filled structures that contain hooklets, which are important for the reproduction and survival of the tapeworm.
If left untreated, hydatid cysts can cause significant damage to the affected organ, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, cough, shortness of breath, and hepatomegaly (enlarged liver). In severe cases, the cysts can rupture, releasing the protoscolices into the surrounding tissues, which can trigger a severe allergic reaction or lead to secondary infections.
The primary method for diagnosing hydatid cysts is through imaging tests, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment options comprise surgical removal of the cysts and/or the use of anti-parasitic medication to kill the tapeworm larvae.
Common Misspellings for HYDATID CYSTS
- gydatid cysts
- bydatid cysts
- nydatid cysts
- jydatid cysts
- uydatid cysts
- yydatid cysts
- htdatid cysts
- hgdatid cysts
- hhdatid cysts
- hudatid cysts
- h7datid cysts
- h6datid cysts
- hysatid cysts
- hyxatid cysts
- hycatid cysts
- hyfatid cysts
- hyratid cysts
- hyeatid cysts
- hydztid cysts
- hydstid cysts
Etymology of HYDATID CYSTS
The word "hydatid" originates from the Greek word "hydatidēs", which means "a small watery vesicle or cyst". The term "hydatid cysts" is used to describe fluid-filled sacs that are formed inside the body, usually in the liver or lungs, as a result of an infection called hydatid disease or echinococcosis. The cysts are caused by the larvae of a tapeworm species called Echinococcus. The name "hydatid" reflects the watery nature of the cysts, which contain a clear fluid.
