Clinical and epidemiological characterization of cystic echinococcosis in children, 2003-2017, Province of Biobío, Chile.

Abstract

Introduction: The WHO lists cystic echinococcosis (CE) as a priority neglected infectious disease for control and elimination, with targets set in regional plans (2020-2029). Objective: To describe clinically and epidemiologically the cases of CE reported as a notifiable disease in children under 18 years of age in the Biobío Region, Chile, 2003-2017. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, observational, and retrospective study. Data were collected from mandatory notifiable disease (ENO) reports submitted to the Ministry of Health (MINSAL), 2003-2017. 56 patients under 18 years were identified with CE in Biobío Province. Results: The average age was 9.3 ± 4.4 years. CE among children under 10 was 58.9%, with a higher rate among girls (62.5%). 23% of patients identified as indigenous. In 60.7% of the cases, the diagnosis was incidental. The most common site of involvement was hepatopulmonary (35.7%); 14.3% of patients presented with eosinophilia, and 30.4% had a positive serology. Conclusion: This is the first study in this Chilean province to focus on the clinical and epidemiological analysis of the pediatric population. Most cases are indigenous girls, with involvement in multiple sites and incidental presentation.