What is a hydatid cyst of the liver?
Hydatid cyst of the liver is a parasitic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus. The principal complications are infection, biliary duct fistula, and rupture into the peritoneum or chest. Diagnosis has become easier with advances in ultrasonic imaging and CT scanning.
How is hydatid cyst diagnosed?
The diagnosis is most easily set by ultrasound or other imaging techniques such as CT-scan or MRI, combined with case history. Serology tests such as ELISA or immunoblotting can be used in addition, being 80-100% sensitive for liver cysts but only 50-56% for lungs and other organs [21].
Why is liver biopsy contraindicated in hydatid cyst?
Liver biopsy is contraindicated for diagnostic purposes since the accidental entry of cyst fluid into the circulation can cause anaphylactic shock.
How many types of hydatid cysts are there?
There are four types of hydatid cysts (HCs) with various levels of organ involvement. All four HC types can be seen in the liver, with the right lobe being the most common site of involvement. There are many potential intrahepatic and extrahepatic complications that affect the liver and other organs.
What causes hydatid cyst?
Cystic echinocccosis (CE), also known as hydatid disease, is caused by infection with the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, a ~2–7 millimeter long tapeworm found in dogs (definitive host) and sheep, cattle, goats, and pigs (intermediate hosts).
Can a cyst on your liver cause problems?
Liver cysts are uncommon and rarely cause symptoms. However, if they become large, they can sometimes cause pain and swelling in the abdomen, plus other symptoms. If a liver cyst is causing problems, a doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst.
What is a liver cyst symptoms?
The symptoms associated with liver cysts include upper abdominal fullness, discomfort, or pain. A small number of patients bleed into the cyst, which causes sudden and severe right upper quadrant and shoulder pain. The bleeding stops on its own, and the pain then improves over the next several days.
What does a liver biopsy tell you?
A liver biopsy is a test used to diagnose liver conditions. Tissue samples are removed from your liver and checked under a microscope for signs of damage or disease. A liver biopsy can tell if there are cancer cells or other abnormal cells in your liver. It can also tell how well your liver is working.
What are the complications of liver biopsy?
Risks
- Pain. Pain at the biopsy site is the most common complication after a liver biopsy.
- Bleeding. Bleeding can occur after a liver biopsy.
- Infection. Rarely, bacteria may enter the abdominal cavity or bloodstream.
- Accidental injury to a nearby organ.
What causes cysts on your liver?
The cause of most liver cysts is unknown. Liver cysts can be present at birth or can develop at a later time. They usually grow slowly and are not detected until adulthood. Some cysts are caused by a parasite, echinococcus that is found in sheep in different parts of the world.