Hydatid disease of bone: a report of 2 cases

Introduction: The hydatid cyst of Echinococcus granulosus tends to develop in liver. The primary bone hydatidosis is rare. Exegisis: The authors report 2 cases of primary hydatidosis of bone in a 57 year old men and 60 year old diabetic women. The symptoms and signs were not specific. The ultrasound investigation: standard radiography and computed tomographic scan, was suggestive of the lesion. The chest radiograph and the abdominal ultrasound were normal. Serological tests for hydatid disease were positive. The two patients have surgical excision and medical treatment: Albendazole administrated for 6 months. Histologic evidence confirmed the diagnosis. The outcome was good for both patients without recurrence after 2 years. Conclusion: Through these 2 cases and a review of the literature, the authors analyse the epidemiological and clinical aspects of bone hydatidosis and discuss the therapeutic procedures. © 2007 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.