Hydatidosis of the orbit

Abstract

Hydatidosis of the orbit has been reported in about 1 % of all cases of hydatid disease. Its prevalence has been reported from 0.3 to 5 % of all the orbital diseases in the literature. Usually the cyst is located in the intraconal space of the orbit. Hydatidosis is common among children and young adults, who usually present with unilateral, progressive axial proptosis of a few months' duration, associated with pain or discomfort and defective vision. Clinical suspicion and appropriate investigations are important. Serology may be positive but imaging is definitive for diagnosis. Computed tomography scan of orbit is preferred over orbital ultrasonography. Evaluation for associated systemic hydatidosis is mandatory. If neglected, the cyst can assume a very large size and lead to total loss of vision. Surgical excision of the cyst is recommended which is facilitated by aspiration of the fluid from the cyst after the cyst wall has been exposed and cryoextraction. Other modalities include percutaneous aspiration and injection of hypertonic saline and reaspiration and medical management.