Hydatidosis of the orbit in Turkey: results from review of the literature 1963-2001

Abstract

Hydatidosis can involve almost every organ or tissue in the body via the systemic circulation, but hydatid infestation of the orbit comprises far less than 1% of the total incidence. This study investigated the data on all patients of orbital hydatid disease reported in Turkey since 1963. In this meta-analysis, a total of 25 patients were included and slowly progressive unilateral proptosis, with or without pain, was the most frequent clinical manifestation (80%). The other presenting symptoms were visual loss (48%), periorbital pain (24%), chemosis (16%), and headache (12%). The presumptive diagnosis of hydatid cyst was made on the images obtained from ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. These diagnostic studies demonstrated a well-circumscribed cystic mass in almost all patients. Total surgical removal without rupture remains the best mode of therapy for orbital hydatid disease. The study indicates that in Turkey hydatidosis remains a serious problem, causing blindness. Orbital hydatid cyst should be included in the differential diagnosis of unilateral proptosis and visual handicap in patients from countries where hydatidosis is endemic.