Giant multiple intra-abdominal hydatid cysts.

BACKGROUND: Hydatid disease is endemic in the cattle grazing areas. It is a parasitic infection caused by the Echinoccocus Granulosus. Dogs are the definitive host and humans get infected either by contact with the definitive host or by consuming hydatid ova contaminated vegetables. METHODS: A 42 yr old lady presented with shortness of breath on exertion, orthopnea and progressively increasing abdominal distention. She had past history of hydatid disease and had three laparatomies and a right thoracotomy, in the past five years. On physical examination, she had a distended, non-tender abdomen.. Her routine laboratory investigations were normal. Echinococcus antibody titres were 1:64 (Normal 1:32). Computed Tomography (CT) scan revealed multiple, well defined cysts throughout the abdomen. Laparotmy and right thoracotomy was planned. RESULTS: Patient refused to undergo any further surgical procedure. She was discharged from the clinic with a prescription ofAlbendazole 400 mg twice a day for an indefinite period. CONCLUSION: Symptomatic or large cysts should be surgically treated. In cases suspected of having peritoneal spillage, antihelminthic drugs should be administered. In addition, small asymptomatic cysts, some daughter cysts, and peritoneal secondary cysts and splenic cysts may also be effectively treated with Albendazole.