Seroprevalence of Echinococcus IgG antibodies in a tertiary care center: a 5-year study and literature review

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE), also known as hydatid disease, is a global zoonotic infection resulting from the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus tapeworms. This condition manifests as single or multiple cystic growths in various bodily organs such as the liver, lungs, kidneys, etc. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on all sample records within the microbiology laboratory register or microbiology database of the parasitology section, spanning from January 2017 to December 2021. The objective was to ascertain the seroprevalence of echinococcosis. Through enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay, 200 samples were examined to detect the presence of anti-hydatid immunoglobulin G (IgG). Results: Among the individuals tested for CE IgG antibodies, a greater seroprevalence was evident in female patients (42.7%) compared to males (32.5%). In 2017, the observed seroprevalence stood at 36%; in 2021, it escalated to 55.5%. It signifies a noteworthy surge of 20% in seropositivity over the last 5 years. Conclusion: The study’s findings highlight a substantial correlation between age, gender, and the prevalence of CE in northern India. Furthermore, the research revealed a progressive incline in seropositivity rates among patients from North India.