Osteoarticular hydatid disease: Epidemiological features, diagnosis and treatment

Osteoarticular hydatid disease is a very rare disease. Its diagnosis is challenging and often late because of the nonspecific clinical and radiological features. Through this study, we aim to describe the epidemiological, clinical and radiological features of a series of patients diagnosed with osteoarticular hydatid disease. Ten patients were included. The average age was 40,5 years [25-75]. The onset of symptoms was progressive in all cases with a mean diagnosis delay of 11 months [1-48]. Most frequent locations were spinal (n=7), pelvic (n=3) and costal (n=3). Hydatid serology was positive in seven screened patients. Seven patients underwent surgery and all of them received albendazole postoperatively with an average of 8 monthly courses. Total remission was reported in only one patient. There was no significant difference in the clinical outcome based on the number of albendazole courses. The diagnosis of osteoarticular hydatid disease is often challenging because of its progressive onset and nonspecific clinical signs. Epidemiological setting, immunological screening and imaging features contribute to an earlier diagnosis. Its management requires both surgery and long-term antiparasitic treatment.