A giant hydatid cyst of the liver

Abstract

Hydatid disease remains a global health problem, and its cure is still controversial. Despite efforts of the World Health Organization, this disease continues to be endemic in many countries while immigration is responsible for cases in countries previously unfamiliar with the disease. In this article, we present the case of a patient with a giant hydatid cyst of the liver and its management. Being a slowly progressive disease, it is generally discovered incidentally — unless the patient presents, as in our case, with a complicated hydatid disease. Modern diagnostic modalities enable disease classification, thereby facilitating a therapeutic plan. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment and should be individualized according to the patient’s overall health status and the predicted perioperative morbidities.