Various Locations of Cystic and Alveolar Hydatid Disease: CT Appearances

Abstract

Hydatid disease (echinococcosis) is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus. In humans, the two main forms are cystic hydatid disease, caused by E. granulosus, and less frequently alveolar hydatid disease, caused by E. multilocularis. They can be found in various sites in the body. The purpose of this essay is to illustrate the CT appearances of cystic and alveolar hydatid disease in various locations.