Abstract

In this short note, we present general information on Echinococcus granulosus and its impact on human health. Our objective is to alert physicians and health professionals to hydatid cyst locations in humans, with emphasis on bones and joints, and the necessity for special care before, during or after surgery. Effectively, opening of a hydatid cyst requires special care not to spill the contents into the peritoneal cavity or tissues, since this may result in an anaphylactic reaction to the spilt fluid or in dissemination and implantation of the immature scolices contained in the “sand” in the fluid. Incomplete removal of viable germinal epithelium from the liming of a hydatid cyst results in the formation of multiple cysts.

Keywords

hidatid cyst, hydatidosis, echinococcosis, Echinococcus granulosus, ingestion, surgery