Albendazole: new indication. Useful adjunct in hydatid disease

(1) Albendazole, an antiparasitic drug belonging to the benzimidazoles, is indicated in France for the treatment of hydatid disease and alveolar echinococcosis. (2) According to non comparative data and a small comparative trial, albendazole is helpful when surgical removal and percutaneous drainage of a hydatid cyst are impossible. The best ways to use this treatment are not, however, known. One comparative trial showed the value of albendazole before surgery. Two other comparative trials showed the benefit of combining albendazole with percutaneous drainage, an approach that can replace surgical excision. (3) In the absence of comparative trials we do not know if the prognostic improvement seen in alveolar echinococcosis in recent years can be ascribed to albendazole. (4) Transaminase activity and blood cell counts should be checked regularly (there may be a small risk of neutropenia).