Vertebral localization of echinococcosis (case report with medullary compression)

A case is presented of cord compression due to vertebral echinococcosis which relapsed after a first laminectomy elsewhere. The authors carried out a second excision with decompression from the anterior approach, supplemented by grafting. After a period of recovery and well being, relapse occurred with renewal of the cord compression. A second decompressive laminectomy and excision of the relapsed cyst was carried out. The present case illustrates the limitations of surgery in this parasitology, because of the extreme liability to relapses.