[Radioclinical profile of cardiopericardial hydatid: report of 17 cases]

K Mrad Dali1, K Tlili, M Ly

  • 1Service de radiologie, hôpital Sahloul, 4011 Sousse, Tunisie.

Annales De Cardiologie Et D'Angeiologie
|January 31, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Hydatid cysts in the heart are rare but dangerous. This study highlights the crucial role of imaging, particularly ultrasound and CT scans, for accurate diagnosis and effective surgical treatment of cardiopericardial hydatid cysts.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Parasitology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Hydatid cysts affecting the heart are uncommon, representing 0.5-2% of all hydatid disease locations.
  • The potential for severe complications necessitates prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention for cardiopericardial hydatid cysts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the diagnostic utility of various imaging modalities for cardiopericardial hydatid cysts.
  • To establish an effective diagnostic and management strategy for this rare condition.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 17 patients surgically treated for cardiopericardial hydatid cysts between 1988 and 1998.
  • Utilized chest X-ray, ECG, ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), transesophageal US, and coronary angiography for diagnosis.
  • Systematic screening for other hydatid disease sites, including brain CT.

Main Results:

  • Hydatid cysts were found in various cardiac locations: left ventricle (5), right ventricle (5), pericardium (5), interventricular septum (4), and auricles (2).
  • Coexistent hydatid disease in other sites was identified in 12 patients.
  • Combined US and CT scans provided accurate topographical information, minimizing the need for MRI to complex or inconclusive cases.
  • Favorable outcomes were observed in 14 patients post-surgery, with a mean follow-up of 3 years and 5 months; three patients died.

Conclusions:

  • Integrated imaging, particularly the combination of US and CT, is vital for precise diagnosis and surgical planning of cardiopericardial hydatid cysts.
  • Early surgical intervention is essential for managing this rare but potentially fatal condition.
  • A strategic approach utilizing advanced imaging can optimize patient care and outcomes.

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