Pulmonary hydatid disease is difficult recognized in children.

Abstract

Pulmonary hydatid disease is a significant health problem for children in endemic areas. Pulmonary hydatid disease is more frequent than hepatic hydatid disease in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of pulmonary hydatid disease for children in our province which is endemic for echinococcosis. This study was performed retrospectively between 2007 and 2012 by reviewing the medical records of patients (≤17 years) who were diagnosed with pulmonary hydatid disease. The medical records of these patients were evaluated with respect to the demographic characteristics of patients, management strategies, length of hospital stay, and outcomes. A total of 120 (52.9% boys and 46.3% girls) patients with the diagnosis of pulmonary hydatid disease were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 10.15 ± 3.93 years. The significant numbers of patients were admitted with a ruptured hydatid disease and managed with lung preservation. The mean follow-up was 11.3 ± 3.8 (3-24) months. Recurrence was detected in three patients during follow-up. Pulmonary hydatid disease is usually symptomatic. Hydatid disease must be considered in differential diagnosis while evaluating thoracic lesions in endemic areas.