Present status on the taxonomy and morphology of Echinococcus granulosus: a review

Abstract

Echinococcus granulosus has been researched extensively and previously discussed in detail as it is the species that is most widely distributed throughout the world. It is a cyclozoonotic infection which has important global implication as it is found in many animals and humans and involves a large group of countries. The high incidence and wide distribution of this parasitic infection that man shares with animals make the disease one of the most serious zoo noses in many parts of the world. Epidemiological studies indicate that the sheep strain of E. granulosus is the leading agent of cystic echinococcosis in humans. The common intermediate host of E. granulosus is many domesticated mammals such as sheep, cattle, pigs, goats and camels. Sheep, which harbor the most fertile hydatid cysts, are the most important intermediate host and represent the most important source of infection to dogs through the feeding of infected offal, giving rise to high prevalence rates as shown in many countries of the world.