Human Alveolar Echinococcosis—A Neglected Zoonotic Disease Requiring Urgent Attention

Abstract

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) in humans is caused by the larval (metacestode) stage of Echinococcus multilocularis, commonly known as the ‘fox tapeworm’. This disease predominantly targets the liver and has an invasive growth pattern, allowing it to spread to adjacent and distant tissues. Due to its gradual progression and tumour-like characteristics, early diagnosis and prompt intervention are crucial, particularly as there are currently no highly effective vaccines or chemotherapeutics against AE. Current estimates suggest that ~10,500 new infections occur annually worldwide; however, more research is required to refine the prevalence and incidence data for both human and animal hosts in en..