Surgical Management of Major Complications of Hydatid Cysts of the Liver- A Review of the Literature

Echinococcal disease of the liver is a rare parasitic disease in which both humans and wild or domestic animals are affected. Most frequently, liver hydatidosis present as uncomplicated cysts. However, hydatid cysts may present with complications such as cysts ruptured into the biliary tract (12%), cysts rupture involving the lung or pleural space (2.2%), cysts ruptured into the peritoneum (1.6%) and cysts ruptured into the digestive tract (0.2%). Acute cholangitis is the most common syndrome, as a result of the presence of the ruptured hydatid cystic contents into the biliary tract. The aim of this study is to review the literature concerning the presentation and management of complicated liver hydatid disease. Special emphasis is given to the specific predisposing factors, as well as clinical symptoms that should trigger the suspicion of the surgeon for