noun
- a parasitic disease caused by tapeworm larvae (Echinococcus) that form cysts in the liver, lungs, brain, or other organs of humans and animals
Usage: medical term; also called hydatidosis or hydatid disease; typically contracted through contact with infected dogs or contaminated food
Examples
- Echinococcosis is endemic in sheep-raising regions where dogs have access to infected animal organs.
- The patient was diagnosed with echinococcosis after imaging revealed cysts in the liver.
- Proper hygiene and deworming of dogs can help prevent echinococcosis in humans.
- Echinococcosis can remain asymptomatic for years before cysts grow large enough to cause problems.
- Treatment of echinococcosis may involve surgery to remove cysts or anthelmintic medications.