[Rare abdominal and peritoneal localizations of hydatid cysts. Report on two cases (author's transl)]

Rarely observed isolated peritoneal hydatid cysts, without initial hepatic lesions or later development in other viscera, were detected in two patients. The diagnosis of hydatidosis confined to the mesocolon was established pre-operatively in the first case, enabling mebendazole treatment to be instituted. In the second case, however, pre-operative diagnosis was not possible, demonstrating the sometimes misleading appearances found in this affection. Aetiopathogenic and diagnostic features are briefly discussed. Therapy raises problems, and though good results have recently been obtained with benzimidazole derivatives, surgical excision in currently the only curative treatment available. Medical treatment (with benzimidazole derivatives) is indicated only in cases with multiple cysts inaccessible to surgery, or a complementary therapy to facilitate excision, reduce risks of propagation during operation, and prevent recurrences.