The many faces of pediatric hydatid disease: a pictorial review

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Parasitology
• Pediatric Imaging

Background:

• Hydatid disease, caused by Echinococcus species larvae, is a major public health concern in South America, particularly affecting children.
• In South America, nearly 16% of hydatid disease cases occur in children under 15, with the liver and lungs being the most commonly affected organs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the diverse radiological manifestations of hydatid cysts in pediatric patients from an endemic region.
• To highlight atypical signs and imaging findings to aid radiologists in diagnosing pediatric hydatid disease.

Main Methods:

• This is a pictorial essay, focusing on the visual representation of hydatid cyst presentations.
• The study reviews imaging findings based on cyst location, parasitic stage, and potential complications.

Main Results:

• Hydatid cysts present variably, from simple cystic lesions to complex solid masses, depending on the parasite's life stage.
• The liver is the most frequent site of involvement in children, followed by the lungs, kidneys, bones, and brain.
• Imaging is critical for diagnosis due to nonspecific clinical symptoms and organ-dependent presentations.

Conclusions:

• Radiological evaluation is essential for diagnosing hydatid disease in children, especially in endemic areas.
• Recognizing typical and atypical imaging features is crucial for effective management and preventing complications like cyst rupture or superinfection.