Renal hydatid cyst: medical treatment

Abstract Introduction: Hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus. It has a worldwide distribution, being endemic in Portugal. Hydatid disease of the urinary tract is rare, occurring in less than 2% of all cases. Case report: 14-year-old male with hydatid disease of the kidney. The diagnosis was established by imaging studies and specific serologic testing. Treatment consisted of four 4-week cycles of albendazol and resulted in a progressive reduction of the cyst as well as in a negative specific serology. Discussion: Even though the recommended treatment is surgical excision, studies have demonstrated that medical treatment may be an alternative allowing for organ preservation.