The scenario of Hydatid cyst disease in epidemic areas of Andhra Pradesh – evaluation and analysis

Background: Hydatid cyst is due to Echinococcus species a Cestode parasite. Commonly found species affecting humans are Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis which cause Cystic Echinococcosis (Hydatid disease) and Alveolar Echinococcosis respectively. It is characterized by slow growing cyst in visceral organs. Dog is definite host and man is incidental host. It is commonly found in sheep and cattle rearing areas of the world like Eastern Europe, Australia, South America and South Asia. Aim: To study the epidemiology and clinicopathological picture of Hydatid disease.Objectives: To estimate the burden of Hydatid disease over the society.Materials and methods: A review of 118 cases of Hydatid disease was carried out in various hospitals in central and southern epidemic zones of Andhra Pradesh, India. A broad descriptive prospective study was done for a period of 3 years i.e., from Jan 2009 - Dec 2011.Results: During this three year study period (Jan 2009 to Dec 2011) 118 Hydatid disease cases were reported, from 3 different districts of Andhra Pradesh. Male predominance was observed 85(72.03%) and females accounted for 33(27.96%) cases. M:F – 2.5:1, majority of cases were distributed in 3rd decade, 20(25.42%). Mean age of presentation was 36.34(±12.29). About 33(27.96%) cases were farmers by occupation. Liver was found to be the most common site – 63(53.38%). Solitary cyst was seen in maximum number of cases – 86(72.88%). The mean size of cyst was 4.11(±1.38). The most common clinical presentation was asymptomatic – 26(22.03%).Conclusion: Hydatid disease still is an emerging problem and is a course of challenge to all the medical practitioners. It is waging a war, with its roots spread deeply in society. Due to its non-specific clinical presentation and lack of awareness regarding the parasite in society it is being overlooked very commonly. Thus, it is necessary to formulate an accurate pathway of approach for the diagnosis, management and prevention of the disease.