Surgical treatment of complicated hepatic echinococcosis in two Bulgarian citizens at two surgical departments in the Czech Republic

• Published in: Rozhledy v chirurgii Vol. 91; no. 7; p. 381
• Main Authors: Vávra, P, Třeška, V, Ostruszka, P, Sutnar, A, Fichtl, J, Hozáková, L, Mitták, M, Horáček, J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Czech
• Published: Czech Republic 01.07.2012
• Subjects: Adult; Echinococcosis, Hepatic - diagnosis; Echinococcosis, Hepatic - parasitology; Echinococcosis, Hepatic - surgery; Humans; Male; Middle Aged
• ISSN: 0035-9351

Echinococcosis, also referred to as hydatidosis, is a parasitic infection caused by the tapeworm Echinococcus in its larval stage. It has worldwide distribution and endemic areas in Europe include especially the regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. In the Czech Republic, its incidence tends to be quite rare. Although it may affect any organ or tissue in the human body, the liver (60%) and lungs (20%) are the most frequently affected sites. The authors present two cases of Bulgarian patients with hepatic echinococcosis operated on the same day at two different surgical departments in the Czech Republic. Treatment is based on the surgical removal of the cysts in combination with anti-parasite treatment by benzimidazoles (Albendazol, Mebendazol). Treatment with anti-parasitic drugs needs to be started preoperatively and should continue for at least 1-2 months after surgery. The success of the treatment can be monitored by imaging methods, especially PET/CT and serology. Patients after surgical as well as conservative therapy need to be followed up on an outpatient basis due to the long-term risk of recurrence.