To describe the different fases of hydatid cyst development in various implantation organs as evaluated through multiple radiological imaging approaches – conventional radiology, ultrasonography and multidetector computed tomography. To illustrate the advantages and limitations of the mentioned radiological techniques in diagnosing hydatid disease and its complications.

In Portugal, mainly in the southern region of Alentejo, hydatid disease is still an endemic condition despite public health efforts. The estimated incidence of human hydatidosis in the Portuguese territory is 2,2 cases per 100 000 habitants/year. The most common site of involvement is the liver (50 to 70%), by the larva of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus although secondary involvement due to haematogenous spread may be seen in virtually any anatomic location. Echinococcal cysts are formed by an outer layer of host tissue, the pericist,...

The authors illustrate hydatid disease as a dynamic entity with multiple imaging appearances and different parasitizing locations, reviewing 27 patients evaluated in our institution with hepatic (24), pulmonary (1), gastric tract (1) and soft tissue (1) hydatid cysts, as well as demonstrating radiological appearances of hydatid cyst complications in the form of rupture (4), infection (1) and common bile duct compression (1), with cases of representative patients. The radiological diagnosis were confirmed by reviewing clinical and surgical records.

Familiarity with the imaging spectrum of hydatid disease, especially in endemic regions, is an unquestionable advantage in achieving a correct diagnosis. Hydatid cyst should be considered whenever a cystic image is found anywhere in the body.

Alexandre Gomes Martins Batista

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