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Pharmacotherapy for Hydatid Cyst and Neurocysticercosis
Hydatid Cyst (Echinococcosis)
Hydatid cysts are caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. Treatment involves pharmacotherapy and sometimes surgical intervention.
Pharmacotherapy
- Albendazole: Primary drug, inhibits microtubule formation.
- Dosage: 10-15 mg/kg/day for 1-3 months
- Indications: Small or inoperable cysts, pre-surgery reduction.
- Adverse Effects: Gastrointestinal upset, liver toxicity.
- Mebendazole: Alternative to albendazole, with lower bioavailability.
- Dosage: 40-50 mg/kg/day for 3-6 months
Other Treatment Approaches
- PAIR (Puncture, Aspiration, Injection, Re-aspiration): Minimally invasive technique combined with albendazole to reduce secondary infection risks.
Neurocysticercosis
Neurocysticercosis is caused by Taenia solium larval cysts in the central nervous system, resulting in seizures and intracranial hypertension.
Pharmacotherapy
- Albendazole: Primary drug, effective at killing brain cysticerci.
- Dosage: 15 mg/kg/day for 8-15 days
- Indications: Active cysticercosis with viable cysts.
- Adverse Effects: Inflammation; corticosteroids may be needed to manage this.
- Praziquantel: Alternative, slightly less effective.
- Dosage: 50-100 mg/kg/day for 15 days
- Indications: Use when albendazole is contraindicated or in combination therapy.
Adjunctive Therapy
- Corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone): To reduce inflammation.
- Antiepileptic Drugs: For seizure control in symptomatic patients.
