Echinococcosis Treatment in India

Myra Miller, a 68-year-old retired sheep...

Myra Miller, a 68-year-old retired sheep farmer from rural Montana, had been experiencing persistent dull pain in her upper right abdomen and unexplained fatigue for nearly a year. She initially attributed it to 'getting older,' but when she developed a dry cough and began feeling a noticeable mass under her ribs, her daughter insisted she see a doctor. A CT scan revealed a large, complex cystic lesion in her liver. Her physician, recalling Myra's lifelong work with livestock and her sheepdogs, suspected hydatid disease (echinococcosis). The doctor explained that a tapeworm parasite, likely contracted decades ago from her dogs, had formed a slow-growing cyst. Given the size and risk of rupture, percutaneous aspiration-injection-reaspiration (PAIR) under ultrasound guidance was recommended. Myra was terrified of the 'needle' and the idea of a parasite living inside her. The procedure itself was done under local anesthesia and sedation; she felt pressure but no pain. Post-procedure, she was monitored for allergic reaction and started on a long course of albendazole. Recovery was gradual over weeks, with the abdominal discomfort significantly improving. Emotionally, Myra moved from fear and disgust ('I had worms') to relief and a sense of closure. She now diligently deworms her remaining dogs and shares her story with other farmers.