ABSTRACT
echinococcus multilocularis Very small tapeworm of dogs acquired by eating infected small rodents. PPP= 3 weeks. Dx: Eggs (30 to 35 µm long) in feces. If a purgative given (dangerous because eggs infectious to man), adult worms (2 mm) may be found in feces. Adult Habitat: Small intestine. Similar Species: Eggs of Echinococcus are indistinguishable from those of Taenia. Range: Rare in most of the United States. Found in Alaska, across Canada, and extending into the wild canid population in the central United States. Clinical Signs: Asymptomatic. Potential Zoonosis: Alveolar hydatid disease in humans who ingest the egg. The egg is infectious when passed. Human disease is 100% fatal without treatment. Tx: Drug of choice is Praziquantel (100% efficacious). In areas where endemic in dog populations (Alaska, etc.), dogs should be treated every 3 weeks.
