 It is also important to note that serologic tests are more valuable for the diagnosis of alveolar echinococcosis than for cystic echinococcosis since they tend to be more reliable for alveolar echinococcosis since more antigens specific for "E. multilocularis" are available.In addition to imaging and serology, identification of "E. multilocularis" infection via PCR or a histological examination of a tissue biopsy from the person is another way to diagnose alveolar echinococcosis.Similar to the diagnosis of alveolar echinococcosis and cystic echinococcosis, the diagnosis of polycystic echinococcosis uses imaging techniques, in particular ultrasonography and CT scans, to detect polycystic structures within the person's body.