Abstract
Purpose: First described in 1699, hydatid cyst in a muscle is extremely rare today, even in endemic areas.
Material and methods: We report a retrospective series of nine cases of primary hydatid cyst observed between 1985 and 1998. The patients were predominantly women living in a rural area (mean age 37 years), who consulted for an isolated tumefaction of the thigh (left side in 7/9 cases) which had evolved for twelve months on the average without affecting the general health status. Ultrasonography was highly contributive, suggesting the diagnosis in all cases. Hydatic serology was positive in five cases. Computed tomography (n=3) and magnetic resonance imaging (n=2) provided supplementary information. Hydatid cysts were identified in the adductors (n=4), the quadriceops (n==3) and the three compartments (n=1).
Results: Surgical treatment was performed in eight patients; en bloc resection of the hydatid cyst with peripheral muscle tissue in six cases and subtotal pericystectomy in two. Clinical and anatomic results are presented at mean six years follow-up.
Discussion: We discuss the role of each radiographic examination for the diagnosis and search for extension of hydatid cysts as well as the therapeutic options depending on the clinical course and soft tissue involvement.
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