[Computerized tomography in the location of hepato-splenic echinococcal cysts. Presentation of 2 cases]

Computerised tomography (CT) was used in a study of liver and spleen hydatids in two patients. CT is of primary importance, even when such cysts occur in unusual sites, i.e. the spleen, because it clinches the diagnosis in all cases where daughter cysts are present. Scintigraphy, angiography, and conventional radiology may be regarded as of secondary importance. Even when CT is not specific due to the absence of daughter cysts, it offers a panorama of the hydatid territory, its boundaries, and the displacement and compression it imposes on neighbouring organs. It immediately defines the liquid content. In addition, the diagnostic values of CT goes beyond that of ultrasonography, which may be impeded by meteorism and surgical sequelae, such as adhesions and scars.