A Primer on Novel Strains of Echinococcus Multilocularis for Canadian Wildlife Biologists

Posted on Nov 30, 2020

Author

by Monika K. MIERZEJEWSKI, Collin J. HORN, and Kinga KOWALEWSKA-GROCHOWSKA
CWBM 9 (2): 132-136.

Correspondence: Monika K. Mierzejewski, University of Alberta, Faculty of Nursing, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada.

Email: mmierzej@ualberta.ca 


Abstract

Echinococcus multilocularis is the causative agent of alveolar echinococcosis, causing approximately 18,000 new cases each year. E. multilocularis is widespread with distinct strains in Europe, Asia, and North America. Recently, a mutant European type strain was detected in North America. This novel strain may be widespread in Canadian wildlife, infect domestic animals, and be the cause of recent human cases of alveolar echinococcosis in Canada. In this review, we cover the biology and diversity of E. multilocularis, the pathology and diagnosis of alveolar echinococcosis, and risk factors for exposure to invasive E. multilocularis.

Key Words: Canids, Echinococcus multilocularis, Echinococcosis, Neglected Disease, North America, Tapeworm

7 - Mierzejewski et al

 

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