Complexo equinococose-hidatidose e suas implicações na saúde pública

Abstract

Echinococcosis-hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by parasites of the genus Echinococcus, which are part of the tapeworm groups. Its cycle depends on mammals in predator and prey relation, with humans being the accidental host of the larval form of the agent, called hydatid cyst. The main species related to infection in humans are E. granulosus, E. multilocularis, E. oligarthra and E. vogeli, causing cystic, alveolar and neotropical echinococcosis, respectively. Although there are different control programs, the disease is still considered neglected in humans. In animals, it is responsible for economic losses resulting from viscera convictions and loss of carcass yield in slaughterhouses. Control measures include sanitary hygiene education of the population, control of the adult parasite in the definitive hosts and a decrease in their contact with the intermediary's viscera. Such measures receive great attention from the veterinarian, demonstrating the importance of this professional in public health. Considering the fact that the disease is considered neglected in human beings, the objective of this study is to carry out a brief review of the characteristics of the agent, the disease and its impact public health, drawing attention to its occurrence.