Spectrum of Pulmonary Hydatidosis in a Tertiary Care Center in Mumbai

Abstract

Background- Hydatid disease, a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus, has variable organ involvement. Pulmonary hydatid disease consists of a vast spectrum; a differential diagnosis to multiple lung diseases. We studied the clinico-radiological and therapeutic aspects of pulmonary hydatid disease. Material and methods- This retrospective observational study was an analysis of patient records from 1997 to 2007. Twenty-three patients were included. Data was analyzed statistically in the form of frequencies and percentages. Results- Mean age was 28.5years. Men outnumbered women. Fourteen patients(60.86%) were from rural regions. Fifteen(65.21%) had contact with dogs. Cough was the predominant symptom(91.3%). Left lung was more involved than the right. The right lower lobe was the most common lobe involved. The commonest chest-radiograph finding was homogeneous round-to-oval opacity(52.94%). Commonest CT-thorax presentation was iso-to-hypodense opacity with enhancing wall. Eight(34.78%) had simultaneous liver involvement. Cyst size ranged from 2.8cms to 12.5cms. Indirect haemagglutination test was positive in 9(60%). Fourteen underwent surgery. Excision of the cysts with capitonnage was the preferred technique. Others were treated with albendazole in the dose of 10-15mg/kg/d for 3-6months. Patients were followed atleast upto 3years without any mortality. Conclusion- Pulmonary hydatidosis is not uncommon even in a non-endemic area with challenging diagnostics and management.