Which pathology is characterized by the creation of daughter cysts?

Prepare for the American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Test. Tackle questions with hints and explanations to succeed in your exam attempt. Get exam-ready now!

Echinococcal infection is characterized by the formation of daughter cysts due to the life cycle of the Echinococcus tapeworm, which typically involves intermediate hosts such as sheep or dogs. In the human host, the larvae can develop into cysts, most commonly affecting the liver and lungs. These cysts can grow larger and may eventually give rise to smaller daughter cysts within them. This phenomenon is a distinctive feature of hydatid disease, which is caused by Echinococcus granulosus or Echinococcus multilocularis, further distinguishing it from other pathologies.

In contrast, portal hypertension primarily involves increased blood pressure in the portal venous system often due to liver cirrhosis or thrombosis, and does not involve the formation of cysts. Cirrhosis itself results from chronic liver damage, leading to fibrosis and scarring rather than the generation of cystic structures. Cholecystitis refers to inflammation of the gallbladder, which can occur due to blockage by gallstones, and it is also not associated with cyst formation. Thus, the unique characteristic of daughter cysts in Echinococcal infection aligns it with the correct answer.

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