HYDATID ACUTE-PANCREATITIS - A RARE COMPLICATION OF HYDATID LIVER-DISEASE - REPORT OF 2 CASES

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is known to be a rare complication of hydatid disease. We present two cases of AP due to intrabiliary ruptured hydat id cysts of the liver. High serum and urine amylase levels and ultraso nographic findings, compatible with AP, were detected. On ultrasonogra phy and computed tomography dilated bile ducts and cystic masses in th e liver were seen. A communication between the bile ducts and a cyst i n one case, and a total common bile duct obstruction with hydatid mate rial in the other case, were seen on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopa ncreatograms. The patients were treated surgically with mainly omentop lasty. Recovery was uneventful. A diagnosis of AP should be kept in mi nd in patients with hydatid liver disease presenting with upper abdomi nal pain.