Hepatopulmonary Hydatidosis in a preschool female: case report

Abstract

A clinical case of multiple hydatidosis is analyzed (4 pulmonary and 2 hepatic) in a 3 years 9 months-old female coming from Punta Arenas and transferred to the V Region for treatment. She required 3 surgeries and medical treatment with Albendazol 15 mg/k/day oral during 73 days. The evolution was monitorized with clinical evaluation, biochemistry, hematological parameters, X-rays, axial computed tomography and serological analysis (ELISA specific IgG). Extracted hydatids were studied in terms of fertility and vitality, identifying strains of Echinococcus granulosus by means of molecular biology technics. The patient showed remarkable clinical and radiographical improvement, maintaining positive serology. The treatment was well tolerated in the dosis and duration period, with no adverse reactions. The size of the hydatid fluctuated between 6 and 11 cm2, all were fertile and vital in different percentage, and in all cases strains of E. granulosus were identified. After 4 months back to Punta Arenas, a new hepatic hydatid was extirpated. The complex handling of this case was successful.