Comparison of demographical characteristics, prognostic factors, and surgical outcomes in children and adult patients with pulmonary hydatid cyst

Abstract

Objective: Pulmonary involvement of hydatid cyst disease (HCD) may cause rupture, anaphylaxis, pneumothorax, and pulmonary hypertension. Our aim was to analyze demographical and clinical characteristics of pulmonary HCD. Methods: Demographical characteristics, laboratory parameters, and clinical features of 171 children and adult patients with pulmonary HCD were analyzed. Age, gender, ELISA test results, duration of hospitalization, surgical method of cyst excision and number, diameter, localization, and perforation status of cysts were recorded. Physical examination, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and serologic tests were used to confirm diagnosis of hydatid cysts. Results: Perforated cysts were observed in 26 children and 22 adults. Twenty-three children and 12 adults had a giant cyst. Extrapulmonary hydatid cysts were observed in 10 children and 21 adults. ELISA IgG positivity was determined in 30 children and 34 adults. Twelve children experienced long-lasting air leakage and responded to drainage. In the adult group, 14 patients had long-lasting air leakage and 3 had empyema and expansion defect. The mean duration of hospitalization for children and adults was 8.9 and 10.45 days, respectively. Conclusion: A better understanding of demographic features, clinical characteristics, complications of disease, and surgical procedures helps to determine optimal follow-up and the therapeutic choice.