Neglected Zoonotic Enteric Parasitic Diseases: Echinococcosis, Cysticercosis, Foodborne Trematodes, and Ttrichinellosis-Review

Maher, Ahmed Mohamed; Shaapan, Raafat Mohamed

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2025.420812.3107

Neglected Zoonotic Enteric Parasitic Diseases: Echinococcosis, Cysticercosis, Foodborne Trematodes, and Ttrichinellosis-Review

Document Type : Review Artical

Authors

Department of Zoonotic Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, P.O. Box 12622, Egypt

10.21608/ejvs.2025.420812.3107

Abstract

Neglected Enteric Zoonotic Parasitic Diseases (EZPDS) are a critical public health challenge worldwide, particularly affecting low-and middle-income countries, including various regions across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This literature review aimed to provide an extensive synthesis of the current understanding of four prominent EZPDs: echinococcosis (hydatidosis), cysticercosis, foodborne trematodes, and trichinellosis, emphasizing their prevalence, diagnosis, prevention, and control measures in diverse geographical contexts. Echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis, leads to severe health complications, including hydatid cyst disease, particularly in regions with livestock farming and inadequate sanitation. Effective diagnosis relies on imaging techniques, serological tests, and molecular methods, though awareness and healthcare access vary significantly. Cysticercosis, resulting from the larval stage of Taenia solium, is a leading cause of neurocysticercosis, with substantial public health implications in areas with poor sanitation, including sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. Foodborne trematodes, including Fasciola hepatica and Clonorchis sinensis, are prevalent in many parts of the world, especially in regions with traditional dietary practices that heighten exposure to contaminated food and water. Trichinella spp. causing trichinellosis, pose additional health risks through consumption of undercooked meat, leading to gastrointestinal and muscular complications in humans. In conclusion, this review highlights the necessity for improved diagnostic methods and underscores the urgent need for community awareness and education, comprehensive strategies that encompass effective and integrated control measures to combat these neglected diseases globally.

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