Serum platelet-derived growth factor-BB levels as a potential biomarker in assessing the metabolic activity of lesions in alveolar echinococcosis patients

•The higher the activity of parasitic lesions in alveolar echinococcosis patients, the lower the platelet-derived growth factor-BB in serum.•Positive correlation was found between the expressions of platelet-derived growth factor-BB around the lesion and disease severity in alveolar echinococcosis patients.•The serum levels of platelet-derived growth factor-BB could be a simple, non-invasive, and quick biomarker for assessing the metabolic activity of lesions in alveolar echinococcosis patients.