Parasites of the liver - epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical management in the European context

Abstract

Parasites in the liver cause significant global morbidity and mortality, as they can lead to recurrent cholangitis, cirrhosis, liver failure and cancer. Due to climate change and globalisation, their incidence is increasing, especially in Europe. The correct diagnosis of a hepatic parasite is often delayed because clinicians are unfamiliar with respective entities. Therefore, in this review, we aim to provide clinicians with a comprehensive clinical picture of hepatic parasites and to bring these neglected parasitic liver diseases to the wider attention of hepatology stakeholders in Europe and around the world.

Keywords: Echinococcus granulosus; Echinococcus multilocularis; Liver parasites; alveolar echinococcosis; amoebiasis; ascariasis; cystic echinococcosis; fascioliasis; hydatid disease; liver flukes; schistosomiasis.