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Cureus May 2024Hydatid cyst disease, caused by the tapeworm larval form, typically affects the liver, lungs, and genitourinary tract. This case report details an unusual manifestation...
Hydatid cyst disease, caused by the tapeworm larval form, typically affects the liver, lungs, and genitourinary tract. This case report details an unusual manifestation of hydatid cysts in a 62-year-old male with a history of retrovesical hydatid cyst surgery. The patient presented with pain at the root of the penis, and subsequent imaging revealed cysts in the suprapubic, pubic bone, and left pectineus muscle regions. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the patient underwent surgical excision in 2023. The discussion emphasizes the rarity of such localized cysts, diagnostic imaging techniques, and the necessity of surgical intervention. The postoperative period involved a course of albendazole. While rectovesical hydatid cysts are uncommon, this case underscores the importance of considering them in the differential diagnosis of masses, particularly in endemic regions. Surgical excision remains the primary treatment for symptomatic hydatid cysts.
PubMed: 38883115
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60312 -
The Pan African Medical Journal 2024
Topics: Humans; Echinococcosis, Pulmonary; Rupture, Spontaneous; Male; Adult; Female; Tomography, X-Ray Computed
PubMed: 38881768
DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2024.47.136.42754 -
BMC Ophthalmology Jun 2024Echinococcosis, commonly known as hydatid disease, is a zoonotic infection resulting from the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. The occurrence of hydatid cysts in the... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Echinococcosis, commonly known as hydatid disease, is a zoonotic infection resulting from the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. The occurrence of hydatid cysts in the orbital region is uncommon, representing less than 1% of all reported hydatid cases. This report details a unique case of an intramuscular hydatid cyst in the orbital region that led to compressive optic neuropathy.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 22-year-old male from Kabul, Afghanistan presented with a five-month history of progressive proptosis in his left eye, associated with a gradual decrease in vision over the past three weeks. The left eye exhibited upward globe dystopia, ocular motility limitation, mild conjunctival injection, and chemosis. Diagnosis was achieved through imaging and histopathological examination. Treatment involves surgical removal of the cyst and prolonged albendazole therapy. The postoperative course showed significant improvement in the patient's condition and restoration of his vision.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite its rarity, this case underscores the importance of awareness and knowledge of hydatid disease among physicians, especially those working in endemic areas. It emphasizes the importance of including hydatid disease in the differential diagnosis of orbital masses, particularly in endemic regions.
Topics: Humans; Male; Echinococcosis; Young Adult; Optic Nerve Diseases; Eye Infections, Parasitic; Orbital Diseases; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Albendazole; Tomography, X-Ray Computed
PubMed: 38877497
DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03502-w -
Journal of Surgical Case Reports Jun 2024, the fox dwarf tapeworm, causes alveolar echinococcosis (AE), a critical and life-threatening condition. A radical surgical approach represents the only curative...
, the fox dwarf tapeworm, causes alveolar echinococcosis (AE), a critical and life-threatening condition. A radical surgical approach represents the only curative option. In this case study, we present a 37-year-old man diagnosed with extensive hepatic AE requiring extended right-sided liver resection including the caudate lobe and retro-hepatic vena cava. The left liver segments were auto-transplanted with reconstruction of the left hepatic vein and an inferior vena cava graft. In the post-operative course, the patient developed a bile leak, which was successfully managed with endoscopic stent intervention. He was discharged after a three-week hospitalization. Medical treatment with albendazole was initiated preoperatively and continued postoperatively.
PubMed: 38868544
DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjae410 -
Infectious Diseases of Poverty Jun 2024Preventive chemotherapy with ivermectin and albendazole (IA) in mass drug administration (MDA) programs for all at-risk populations is the core public health...
Efficacy of ivermectin and albendazole combination in suppressing transmission of lymphatic filariasis following mass administration in Tanzania: a prospective cohort study.
BACKGROUND
Preventive chemotherapy with ivermectin and albendazole (IA) in mass drug administration (MDA) programs for all at-risk populations is the core public health intervention to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF). Achieving this goal depends on drug effectiveness in reducing parasite reservoirs in the community to halt transmission. We assessed the efficacy of ivermectin and albendazole in clearing microfilariae and circulating filarial antigens (CFA) following MDA.
METHODS
This community-based prospective study was conducted in Mkinga district, Tanga region, Tanzania, from November 2018 to June 2019. A total of 4115 MDA-eligible individuals were screened for CFA using Filarial test strips. CFA positives were re-examined for microfilariae by microscopy. CFA and microfilariae positive individuals were enrolled and received IA through MDA campaign. The status of microfilariae and CFA was monitored before MDA, and on day 7 and six-month following MDA. The primary efficacy outcomes were the clearance rates of microfilariae on day 7 and six-months, and CFA at 6 months of post-MDA. The McNemar test assessed the proportions of microfilariae positive pre- and post-MDA, while Chi-square tests were utilized to examine factors associated with CFA status six months post-MDA.
RESULTS
Out of 4115 individuals screened, 239 (5.8%) tested positive for CFA, of whom 11 (4.6%) were also positive for microfilariae. Out of the ten microfilariae-positive individuals available for follow-up on day 7, nine tested negative, yielding a microfilariae clearance rate of 90% [95% confidence interval (CI): 59.6-98.2%]. Participants who tested negative for microfilariae on day 7 remained free of microfilariae six months after MDA. However, those who did not clear microfilariae on day-7 remained positive six-months post-MDA. The McNemar test revealed a significant improvement in microfilariae clearance on day 7 following MDA (P = 0.02). Out of 183 CFA-positive individuals who were available at 6-month follow-up, 160 (87.4%) remained CFA positive, while 23 became CFA negative. The CFA clearance rate at 6 months post-MDA was 12.6% (95% CI: 8.5-8.5%). There was no significant association of variability in ivermectin plasma exposure, measured by maximum concentration or area under the curve, and the clearance status of microfilariae or CFA post-MDA.
CONCLUSIONS
Preventive chemotherapy with IA effectively clears microfilariae within a week. However, it is less effective in clearing CFA at six months of post-MDA. The low clearance rate for filarial antigenemia underscores the need for alternative drug combinations and additional preventive measures to achieve LF elimination by 2030.
Topics: Ivermectin; Albendazole; Tanzania; Humans; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Prospective Studies; Male; Mass Drug Administration; Female; Adult; Middle Aged; Adolescent; Young Adult; Animals; Child; Filaricides; Drug Therapy, Combination; Microfilariae; Aged; Child, Preschool; Antigens, Helminth; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38867265
DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01214-3 -
Journal of Cellular and Molecular... Jun 2024Chemotherapy resistance remains a significant challenge in treating ovarian cancer effectively. This study addresses this issue by utilizing a dual drug-loaded...
Chemotherapy resistance remains a significant challenge in treating ovarian cancer effectively. This study addresses this issue by utilizing a dual drug-loaded nanomicelle system comprising albendazole (ABZ) and paclitaxel (PTX), encapsulated in a novel carrier matrix of D-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate vitamin E (TPGS), soluplus and folic acid. Our objective was to develop and optimize this nanoparticulate delivery system using solvent evaporation techniques to enhance the therapeutic efficacy against ovarian cancer. The formulation process involved pre-formulation, formulation, optimization, and comprehensive characterization of the micelles. Optimization was conducted through a 32 factorial design, focusing on the effects of polymer ratios on particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI) and entrapment efficiency (%EE). The optimal formulation demonstrated improved dilution stability, as indicated by a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 0.0015 mg/mL for the TPGS-folic acid conjugate (TPGS-FOL). Extensive characterization included differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The release profile exhibited an initial burst followed by sustained release over 90 h. The cytotoxic potential of the formulated micelles was superior to that of the drugs alone, as assessed by MTT assays on SKOV3 ovarian cell lines. Additionally, in vivo studies confirmed the presence of both drugs in plasma and tumour tissues, suggesting effective targeting and penetration. In conclusion, the developed TPGS-Fol-based nanomicelles for co-delivering ABZ and PTX show promising results in overcoming drug resistance, enhancing solubility, sustaining drug release, and improving therapeutic outcomes in ovarian cancer treatment.
Topics: Female; Paclitaxel; Micelles; Albendazole; Ovarian Neoplasms; Humans; Animals; Cell Line, Tumor; Drug Carriers; Polyethylene Glycols; Vitamin E; Folic Acid; Mice; Drug Liberation; Particle Size; Polyvinyls; Polymers; Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
PubMed: 38864691
DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18389 -
Transactions of the Royal Society of... Jun 2024We performed a review of published and gray literature of human Hymenolepis diminuta cases across Europe up to July 2022. Of all detectable publications and records, we...
We performed a review of published and gray literature of human Hymenolepis diminuta cases across Europe up to July 2022. Of all detectable publications and records, we further analyzed only those that contained demographic, clinical or epidemiological data regarding the infected subjects. Additionally, one case of hymenolepiasis in a 16-mo-old boy living in the urban part of Belgrade was included in the analysis. Published studies were based in 13/50 European countries and identified 104 laboratory-confirmed cases in total. Almost one-half (49%) of all cases originated from Mediterranean countries. Among symptomatic children, the infection most often manifested with diarrhea, abdominal pain, allergic reaction and behavioral changes. The diagnosis was made by the detection and identification of H. diminuta eggs or parts of strobila in stool samples, although cases of misdiagnosis were also reported. The parasite clearance was established with praziquantel or niclosamide, while the administration of albendazole or mebendazole led to unfavorable results. Future multicentric prospective studies focused on infection screening and the gathering of detailed sociodemographic and clinical data could provide an updated insight into the true distribution and characteristics of H. diminuta infection across Europe.
PubMed: 38864212
DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trae037 -
Frontiers in Immunology 2024Encephalitozoon hellem (E. hellem) infection is a zoonotic disease, rarely observed in individuals, causing various clinical manifestations including diarrhea,...
BACKGROUND
Encephalitozoon hellem (E. hellem) infection is a zoonotic disease, rarely observed in individuals, causing various clinical manifestations including diarrhea, keratoconjunctivitis, cystitis, etc. E. hellem infection after hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) is a rare, serious complication.
CASE PRESENTATION
Herein, we present a case of E. hellem infection developing during HLA-haploidentical HSCT in a 9-year-old boy who suffered from aplastic anemia. On 15 days after HSCT, the patient developed recurrent and prolonged fever, diarrhea and hematuria. It is challenging to differentiate whether the symptoms mentioned in this case are caused by graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or a specific infection. Based on the result of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and clinical observation, the patient was diagnosed as E. hellem infection, and received albendazole and decreased the immunosuppressive treatment. Finally, he had recovered.
CONCLUSION
We should pay attention to the uncommon disease caused by the E. hellem infection after HSCT, especially in cases with immune reconstitution unrecovered. Among those rare infection, mNGS can be performed for better understanding the source of infection and targeted therapy, which can benefit the patients.
Topics: Humans; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; Male; Child; Transplantation, Haploidentical; Anemia, Aplastic; Albendazole; Graft vs Host Disease; Transplantation, Homologous
PubMed: 38863712
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1396260 -
International Journal of Surgery Case... Jul 2024Cystic echinococcosis is a public health concern worldwide and is endemic in rural communities in South Africa (Shaw et al., 2006). The management of hydatid liver...
INTRODUCTION
Cystic echinococcosis is a public health concern worldwide and is endemic in rural communities in South Africa (Shaw et al., 2006). The management of hydatid liver disease is of vital socio-economic importance within the infected communities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [Internet]. Echinococcosis). Often, surgical intervention is needed, and this carries its own morbidity and economic burden in our low-to-middle income setting (Acta Trop., 2003). Definitive endoscopic management is rarely considered and offers an exciting option with decreased morbidity to the patient.
PRESENTATION OF CASE
This is a case report of a 36-year-old male who presented with a large right lobe liver hydatid cyst causing abdominal discomfort and pain. He also described early satiety and weight loss with malaise. The symptoms had been present for approximately 8-months duration. The diagnosis of a hydatid liver cyst was made on positive serology and imaging (CE1). The disease was managed with medical treatment using a full course of albendazole initially and then endoscopic drainage into the duodenum using a cautery-enhanced lumen apposing metal stent. There has been no recurrence up to the present time and complete symptom and cyst resolution has been noted.
DISCUSSION
Given the success of this unconventional management, this case report will help in providing a low-morbidity management option in this endemic disease in certain selected cases. It also provides in detail how to use this option as a definitive management pathway.
CONCLUSION
This management option required dynamic thinking and a new application of a revolutionary technology which has changed endoscopic management of a variety of conditions.
PubMed: 38851071
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109825 -
International Journal of Surgery Case... Jul 2024Hydatid disease is widespread in agricultural regions and globally. Tunisia is notably affected in the Mediterranean. Although liver involvement is common, splenic...
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE
Hydatid disease is widespread in agricultural regions and globally. Tunisia is notably affected in the Mediterranean. Although liver involvement is common, splenic hydatidosis is rare, with incidence worldwide ranging from 0.5 % to 4 %. Surgery, particularly total or partial splenectomy, remains the primary treatment. We present a unique case of isolated splenic hydatid cyst successfully managed by total splenectomy.
CASE REPORT
A 40-year-old Tunisian farmer presented with persistent pain in the left hypochondrium for 4 months, accompanied by a sensation of heaviness. Physical examination revealed splenomegaly, and laboratory tests showed a positive Indirect Hemagglutination test for Echinococcus sp. (titer >160). Thoracoabdominal CT scan revealed a 10 cm splenic hydatid cyst. Surgery involved total splenectomy via an extended left subcostal approach. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with successful albendazole therapy and vaccination following splenectomy. During biannual follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic and did not present with any other hydatid localization.
CLINICAL DISCUSSION
Splenic hydatid cyst is rare. Diagnostic and therapeutic advancements are crucial for its management. Therapeutic options include total splenectomy, spleen preservation, and percutaneous interventions. However, these approaches carry unique risks and benefits. Close monitoring and individualized management are essential to ensure optimal outcomes.
CONCLUSION
Diagnosis of splenic hydatid cysts is challenging due to their often asymptomatic nature and lack of specific signs. With no standardized management protocols available, personalized treatment strategies are essential. Further research is crucial to improve treatment approaches and outcomes for this rare yet clinically important condition.
PubMed: 38851067
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109869