Comparison of different commercial DNA extraction kits and PCR protocols for the detection of Echinococcus multilocularis eggs in faecal samples from foxes.

•The performance of commercial DNA extraction kits for processing E. multilocularis eggs suspended in fox faecal samples can differ widely.•None of the tested extraction kits was able to remove PCR inhibitors completely.•Combinations of DNA extraction kits and PCR are described providing an acceptable diagnostic sensitivity and specificity.