Hydatid Cyst
Hydatid disease, also called cystic echinococcosis, is a parasitic infection caused by a tapeworm. People can get the disease if they come into contact with dog feces containing the parasite. Hydatid disease causes cysts to grow in organs, usually your liver
Symptoms of Hydatid Cyst
- Bloody stools.
- diarrhoea.
- unexplained weight loss.
- swollen abdomen.
- Lump or mass in your midsection.
- Discomfort in your abdomen or chest.
- cough.
- blood or the fluid from a ruptured cyst – may be coughed up.
How is hydatid disease transmitted?
People can get hydatid disease if they come into contact with the feces (poop) of a dog that contains the parasite’s eggs. Over time, the parasites grow larger and turn into a cyst. Transmission can happen through:
- Drinking contaminated water.
- Eating infected soil found on vegetables, greens or berries.
- Petting or handling an infected dog.
Treatment Option
Treatment for hydatid disease depends on the size and location of the cysts. The most common treatments include:
Surgery: Large, deep cysts may need to be removed with surgery. Surgical cyst removal involves removing part or all of the cyst or part of your liver. Surgery risks spilling parasites into your abdominal cavity, so only an experienced healthcare provider should perform the procedure.
How can I prevent Hydatid Cyst?
Preventing the spread of parasites is the only way to control hydatid disease. People at risk of contracting the infection should:
- Avoid eating or drinking anything that may have come into contact with dog feces.
- Have dogs dewormed by a trained veterinarian, not at home.
- Not have contact with dogs that may be infected.
- Not slaughter sheep or other livestock at home.
- Prevent dogs from eating infected sheep.
- Wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.
- Wash their hands with soap and water frequently, especially before preparing food or after handling dogs.
DR. MAYANK JAIN
Dr Mayank Jain is very renowned and highly experienced Laparoscopic & Minimal Access Surgeon in Agra.
