Alveolar Echinococcosis

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus multilocularis. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, and is found primarily in parts of Europe, North America, East Asia, and the Arctic. AE is a chronic and potentially fatal disease that affects both the liver and other organs. It can cause cysts to form inside the liver, eventually leading to liver failure. Treatment of AE is typically long and complex, and includes surgery, chemotherapy, and other drug therapies. Prevention methods include controlling animal populations that carry the parasite, and avoiding contact with infected animals or their feces. Effective control of AE requires coordinated efforts from public health and animal healthcare professionals.