Hydatid disease

Incidence

Age

Sex

Geography

Aetiology
- Echinococcus granulosus
- single or multiple cysts in lower part of right lower lobe
- 3 layers; outer layer from host, intermediate lamiated layer, inner germinal layer buds off brood capsules -> daughter cysts

Presentation
- may be asymptomatic
- may be dull ache and swelling in right hypochondrium

Investigations

FBC
- peripheral eosinophilia in 30%

- positive hydatid complement fixation test or haemagglutination - 85%

AXR
- may show calcification of outer coat of cyst

USS / CT
- cysts; daughter cysts existing within parent cyst are diagnostic

Macro

Micro

Staging
 

Serum markers

Management

Medical - albendazole can reduce cyst size

FNA under ultrasound guidance with chemotherapeutic cover

Surgery with removal of (hopefully) intact cyst following sterilization with formalin or ETOH
- chronic, calcified cysts can be left

Preventative
- deworm pet dogs
- prevent pets from eating infected carcasses

Prognosis
- good if no comlications

Complications
- rupture
- 2º infection
- involvement of other organs

Hepatobiliary medicine

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