Does HIV co-infection promote Echinococcus dissemination?

Summary: The influence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on the severity of hepatic cystic echinococcosis (CE) is uncertain. HIV-modulated immune suppression may increase the risk of contracting CE with less self-limiting disease, more rapid progression, and a higher likelihood of complications. A 30-year-old male with concurrent, untreated HIV underwent surgery for two large, complicated hepatic CE cysts, which were replacing the right hemiliver, and innumerable peritoneal daughter cysts. At operation, 30 kg of cystic material was removed from the liver and peritoneal cavity. Despite postoperative complications, including cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and a bile leak, the patient made a full recovery.