Unusual presentation of a common disease

Abstract EN

This study aimed to describe the clinical features of acute rupture of hydatid cyst in the peritoneum.

We retrospectively studied 7 patients who underwent explorative laparotomy between January 2002 and October 2005, and in whom exploration confirmed the rupture of hydatid cyst in the peritoneum.

Rupture was secondary to trauma in 2 patients, and occurred spontaneously in 5 patients.

All patients presented with acute peritonitis, and anaphylactic shock developed in 4 patients.

One patient died postoperatively.

Ultrasonogrophic diagnosis was made in 3 patients.

Surgical treatment consisted of the treatment of peritonitis, the ruptured hydatid cyst and evacuation of the free intraperitoneal hydatid fluid.

All patients kept on albendazole.

Acute rupture of hydatid cyst in the peritoneum should be considered when evaluating acute abdomen in endemic areas.