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Intracranial hydatid cysts in children
Y Erşahin1, S Mutluer, E Güzelbağ
1Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ege University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey.
Neurosurgery
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Intracranial hydatid cysts, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, predominantly affect children. Surgical removal without rupture is crucial for successful treatment and preventing recurrence of these brain cysts.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Parasitology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Brain involvement in hydatid disease is rare, affecting 1-2% of Echinococcus granulosus infections.
- Intracranial hydatid cysts are more common in children, accounting for 50-75% of cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review surgical outcomes for pediatric intracranial hydatid cysts.
- To evaluate the efficacy of mebendazole therapy in specific cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 19 children who underwent surgery for intracranial hydatid cysts between 1979 and 1992.
- Review of clinical presentation, surgical findings, and outcomes.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan analysis for lesion characteristics.
Main Results:
- Headache and vomiting were the most common symptoms; papilledema was present in 16 patients.
- Total cyst removal without rupture was achieved in 12 patients.
- Recurrence was noted in 2 of 3 patients with cysts showing rim enhancement and perifocal edema on CT scans.
Conclusions:
- Complete surgical excision of cerebral hydatid cysts without rupture is essential.
- Mebendazole may be effective in managing hydatid disease, particularly after cyst rupture or in systemic cases.
- Preoperative diagnosis and consideration of hydatid disease in endemic areas are vital for surgical planning.