The value of plain film findings in hydatid disease of bone

Abstract

The radiographic features of hydatid disease of bone have been reviewed in 16 Kuwaiti patients. The majority of the lesions were in the lower limb or pelvis, and the commonest presentation was with a pathological fracture. The radiological signs seen most often were lucent lesions in the bone, associated with expansion of the bone and thinning of the cortex. In patients with these signs soft tissue calcification appeared to be highly suggestive of hydatid disease. The disease was diagnosed before operation in only half the patients. In areas where the disease is endemic hydatid disease should be suspected when the lesions described are seen on plain films.