Percutaneous US-guided combined ethanol and tetracycline injection for treating symptomatic simple and hydatid hepatic cysts

Cystic echinococcosis in humans and animals in Egypt: An epidemiological overview

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by the cestode Echinococcus granulosus (sensu lato), is a serious neglected zoonotic disease in many parts of the world, including Egypt. Thus far, the actual incidence of CE in the Egyptian population remains unknown. Infection with E. granulosus (s.l.) is common among stray dogs in rural and suburban areas owing to the spread of parasite eggs. Herein, we present an updated review of published data on the incidence of CE in humans and animals as well as the genotypes prevalent in Egypt. CE occurs in most parts of Egypt; however, available data are mostly from northern Egypt, particularly Cairo and Giza. In southern Egypt, the disease is likely to be underdiagnosed or underreported. A few risk factors were studied. In the Egyptian population, residency in rural areas, farming, and age were significant factors for acquiring CE. In livestock, age, sex and season have been associated with high prevalence of CE. Several genotypes have been identified among livestock (G1, G4, G5, G6 and G7) and humans (G1, G6 and G7). This literature review underscores the need for a precise national surveillance system to track CE distribution in humans and animals and design appropriate preventive and control strategies for this disease.

•

A review summarizing the epidemiological data for Echinococcus granulosus (s.l.) infections in Egypt.

•

Egypt is an endemic area for cystic echinococcosis in the human population and livestock.

•

Genotypes G1, G4, G5, G6 and G7 of E. granulosus (s.l.) were reported in Egypt.

•

A national surveillance system to track cystic echinococcosis in Egypt is needed.