Hydatid cyst: an unusual disease of the mediastinum.
BACKGROUND
Hydatid cystic disease is still a significant clinical problem in endemic countries, particularly in Morocco. Mediastinal localization is very rare. We report our surgical experience with this particular lesion.


METHODS
In a retrospective review of the last ten years (1990-1999), we had seven cases of mediastinal localization out of total of 2332 (0.3%) intrathoracic hydatid cysts treated in our service. Imaging investigation consisted of chest x-ray and computed tomography. All diagnoses were confirmed peroperatively macroscopically and for some lesions, histologically.


RESULTS
Complete resection of the cyst was performed in six cases. In one case, a small part of the wall intimately adherent to the superior vena cava was left in place. There were no complications, mortality or recurrence.


CONCLUSIONS
Hydatid cysts can be found in many different sites in the body. Whenever possible, surgical management is the best treatment but extensive resection should be avoided. Medical treatment as an adjunct to surgery is indicated when there is a risk of dissemination.
Kabiri
el H
el H
Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco. hassankabiri@yahoo.com
al Aziz
S
S
el Maslout
A
A
Benosman
A
A
D000328:Adult; D004443:Echinococcosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008477:Mediastinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000601:surgery; D008482:Mediastinum / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed