THE DIAGNOSIS BY FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY OF HYDATID CYST OF THEPANCREAS

We describe a case of pancreatic hydatid cyst in which the definitive diagnosis was made at fine needle aspiration cytology. The most common site of hydatid cyst is the liver (65%), followed by the lungs (25%). The hydatid cyst of the pancreas is rare since it accounts for less t han 1% of the various sites of hydatid disease. The diagnosis may be d ifficult when the presentation is that of an unexplained epigastric ma ss or cyst, despite suggestive radiological and ultrasonographic featu res. Modern serology tests are positive in up to 80% of the abdominal hydatid cysts. It is mandatory to obtain a fine needle aspiration biop sy for definite diagnosis and for appropriate treatment planning. Surg ical removal of the hydatid cyst still remains the most effective trea tment.