Vertebral hydatidosis: three case reports

Purpose of the study Vertebral hydatidosis, the most frequent localization of skeletal hydatidosis, has an ominous prognosis with the risk of progress ive but permanent neurological damage. There is no consensus on appropriate management. Treatment is often unsuccessful with frequent recurrence. The purpose of this study was to assess our experience with this rare disease t o identify diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic features. Material and methods We reviewed the charts of three patients with vertebra l hydatidosis treated at the department of orthopedics at the Casablanca ch ildren's hospital between January 1989 and January 1998. Diagnosis was made early in the first patients, allowing complete excision of the hydatid cys t. Follow-up was uneventful 10 years after surgery. The second patient pres ented after a long disease course and had definitive neurological complicat ions despite treatment. The lesions were extensive in the third patient and cure could not be achieved although the patient remained asymptomatic. Discussion Vertebral hydatidosis is a severe disease causing frequent neuro logical complications. Surgical treatment, though difficult, is the only ef ficient option. Complete recovery can be achieved after surgical excision o f lesions diagnosed early. Prevention is the best therapeutic strategy in e ndemic areas.