A study of the frequency of medical and surgical treatment of hydatid cyst in the patients of Arak city, Iran

Hydatidosis is one of the most important parasitic diseases worldwide, and it is caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. This disease is endemic in Iran and can cause large losses of life and property. A few studies have been done in this area in Arak city, Iran. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of medical and surgical treatment of patients with hydatid cyst in hospitals of Arak city to promote the management of patients. This study is a descriptive study in which the cases are examined and the characteristics of patients with hydatid cyst and their relevant treatment method in Vali ASR and Amir al-Moemenin Hospitals between 2009-2013 have been evaluated. Of 70 patients, 41 (58.6%) were women and 29 (41.1%) were men and the highest incidence was in the third decade of age (20%). Most patients belonged to the rural population (54.3%). The organs with highest involvement were liver (62.9%) and lung (27.1%) respectively, and the involvement of other organs was (7.14%). The average size of the cysts was 33±85 mm. 64 patients (91.42%) received combined treatment, and 6 patients (8.57%) only received medical treatment. The highest and most effective treatment of choice in the patients with hydatid cyst is the combined surgery and pharmaceutical procedure, and medication therapy before and after surgery, reduces relapses.