ULTRASONIC SCREENING FOR ECHINOCOCCOSIS AND ALVEOCOCCOSIS IN THE POPULATION OF THE CHON-ALAI DISTRICT

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prevalence of cystic and alveolar echinococcosis, as well as the rate of infection among the rural population of the Chon-Alai district (Osh region, Kyrgyz Republic) using ultrasound (US) screening. Methods: This study presents the results of liver US examinations performed on 304 individuals aged 16 to 78 years across nine settlements in the ChonAlai district. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants (and from parents/guardians for minors). All participants completed a specially designed epidemiological questionnaire. Results: Eight positive cases (2.6%) were identified, with an equal distribution between male and female patients. These included two cases of active echinococcosis, two cases of active alveococcosis, and four patients with a history of surgical intervention (three for echinococcosis and one for alveococcosis). Half of these cases (50%) were newly diagnosed. With 95% confidence, the true prevalence of these diseases in the population ranges from 0.8% to 4.4%. These findings underscore the critical need for regular screening and preventive measures to reduce the burden of echinococcosis and alveococcosis among the rural population of the Chon-Alai district. Conclusion: The findings confirm that the region is highly endemic for these diseases, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance, prevention, and public health awareness campaigns. Targeted US screening in endemic areas identified asymptomatic cases, which is vital for early intervention and developing effective regional control programs against cystic and alveolar echinococcosis. Keywords: Echinococcosis, alveococcosis, ultrasound diagnostics, prevalence, infection rate, Kyrgyzstan.