Clinical significance
Infection with Echinococcus granulosus occurs through accidental ingestion of the parasite’s eggs, which are passed in the faeces of animals (dogs, foxes, wolves) that feed on carcasses, especially of sheep. After crossing the intestinal barrier, the parasite’s oncospheres travel in the blood to organs, most often the liver and lungs, where they form the characteristic cysts.
Testing for anti-Echinococcus antibodies has good sensitivity and specificity in patients with liver cysts, while sensitivity is much lower for lung and bone cysts.
Clinical indications
Suspected infection
Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.
Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed. You must have been standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
There is 50% cross-reaction in patients with cysticercosis. There may be false positives in patients with cirrhosis and lupus.