Treatment
Many patients can be treated with albendazole or mebendazole. These medications are often used for up to 3 months. Another drug, praziquantel, may be helpful combined with albendazole or mebendazole.
The cysts may be removed with surgery, if possible. This can be a complicated surgery.
Prognosis (Expectations)
If the cysts respond to oral medication, the likely outcome is good.
Complications
The cysts may break open (rupture) and cause severe illness, including:
- Fever
- Low blood pressure
- Shock
The cysts may also spread throughout the body.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of this disorder.
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Echinococcus : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Echinococcus : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Echinococcus : Treatment
Review Date : 9/3/2008
Reviewed By : D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University.� Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
