Overview
Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus species. Diagnosis currently relies on imaging, serology and microscopy, but microscopy is time-consuming, has limited sensitivity and cannot distinguish between Echinococcus species. Molecular methods such as PCR may therefore provide a faster, more sensitive and species-specific diagnostic approach, with both clinical and epidemiological value. This study aims to improve molecular diagnosis and knowledge of pulmonary echinococcosis.
Description
Echinococcosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus species. Current diagnosis mainly relies on imaging, serology and microscopy. However, microscopy may have limited sensitivity and cannot reliably distinguish between species.
The primary aim of this study is to collect biological samples and develop an in-house PCR diagnostic protocol.
The PCR will detect parasitic genetic material and differentiate among four Echinococcus species, and the molecular results will be compared with conventional serology and microscopy. Whole-genome sequencing will also be used for species characterisation.
In synthesis, the study aims to improve molecular diagnosis and knowledge of pulmonary echinococcosis.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Suspected diagnosis of echinococcosis
- Patients requiring surgery to remove cysts
- Patients aged 6 years or over
- Signature of informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients who are candidates for surgery for other reasons
