Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis (HAE) is a rare and potentially life-threatening parasitic disease primarily affecting the liver. It is caused by the larva of a tapeworm known as Echinococcus multilocularis. This tapeworm is commonly found in wildlife, especially foxes and other canids, and is transmitted to humans through ingestion of food or water contaminated with the worm's eggs.
Once inside the human body, the eggs hatch in the intestines and the larvae penetrate the intestinal wall to reach the liver. There, they form sac-like structures known as alveolar cysts, which gradually multiply in number and invade the surrounding liver tissue. This leads to the progressive destruction of the liver, resulting in the development of tumors or lesions in the affected organ. If left untreated, HAE can spread to other organs, such as the lungs or brain, causing severe complications.
Symptoms of Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis may include abdominal pain, hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver), jaundice, weight loss, fatigue, and general malaise. However, the disease often progresses silently for years without any noticeable symptoms, making early detection challenging.
Treatment of HAE usually involves a combination of surgery, antiparasitic medications, and sometimes liver transplantation. Complete removal of the lesions through surgery is often difficult due to their invasive nature, and antiparasitic drugs are used to inhibit the growth of the cysts and prevent the spread of the infection.
Prevention of Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis primarily focuses on controlling the transmission of the parasite by avoiding contact with infected animals, practicing good hygiene, and ensuring proper cooking of food.
