HYDATID CYST IN LUNG AND LIVER

Hydatid cyst is especially prevalent in parts of Eurasia, north and east Africa, Australia, South America. Hydatid disease is a zoonotic infection caused by adult or larval stages of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus and affects both humans and mammals. The infection is transmitted to dogs when they are fed on infected viscera of sheep or other ruminant during the home slaughter of animals. In the present case series four cases of hydatid cyst occurring at the lung and liver sites are discussed. The symptoms and signs may be caused by a toxic reaction to the parasite or by local and mechanical effects, depending on the location and nature of the cysts and the presence of complications. Early diagnosis and proper treatment will help to reduce the complication rate and prevent recurrence.