Hydatism is a medical term referring to an infectious disease caused by the ingestion of the larvae of the tapeworm known as Echinococcus. It is primarily a parasitic infection that affects animals, particularly canines such as dogs and foxes. However, humans can also become infected through accidental ingestion of this parasite.
In hydatism, the larvae develop into adult tapeworms inside the intestines of the infected animal, which can shed thousands of eggs in their feces. These eggs contaminate the environment and can be ingested by other animals, including humans, who come into contact with contaminated soil, water, or food.
When humans become infected with hydatism, the larvae develop into cysts mainly in the liver and lungs, but they can also affect other organs or tissues, such as the brain or bones. These cysts can grow slowly and cause various symptoms, depending on their location and size, including abdominal pain, cough, jaundice, and neurological disorders.
Hydatism can have serious consequences if not properly treated. The diagnosis is usually made through imaging techniques such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRI scans, along with blood tests for specific antibodies. Treatment options for hydatism include surgical removal of the cysts, antiparasitic medications, or a combination of both.
Preventing hydatism involves ensuring proper hygiene, especially in rural areas where the infection is more prevalent, and implementing prevention measures such as deworming domestic animals regularly, avoiding contact with their feces, and sterilizing potentially contaminated food and water sources.
