Echinococcal diseases in an extended family and review of the literature.

Echinococcal disease occurred in an extended family from Athens, Greece. Seven of the 11 family members were noted to be infected with Echinococcus granulosus, and five members have undergone surgical treatment. The potential sources of infection are discussed, although localization was impossible. There is no genetic basis for this disease and no apparent pattern of family member interrelationship or visceral involvement. Although echinococcal infection is frequently diagnosed in large urban centers, its transmission within a family is rare. Review of the literature and the current diagnostic and therapeutic measures are presented.