Intra Cranial Hydatid Cyst

Hydatid cyst is the larval form of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus which causes cystic echinococcosis, or Echinococcus multilocularis which causes alveolar echinococcosis; former being more common. Hydatid cysts commonly affect liver and lung but it can also affect the brain in rare cases. It is an important zoonotic disease which is widespread throughout the world. We report a case of 46 year female with history of headache, seizures and left hemiparesis. Intracranial hydatid cyst was diagnosed on computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging. The cyst was delivered without rupture using Dowling-Orlando technique followed by post-operative anthelminthic medication. Amongst the surgical techniques described, Dowling's technique is the most acceptable. However, care must be taken in to avoid rupture of the cyst peroperatively which can result in subsequent complications and recurrence. Cerebral hydatid cyst is primarily a surgical illness requiring meticulous surgical skills. Albendazole and corticosteroids may act as an adjunct to surgical treatment; however, the importance of un-ruptured extirpation of the cyst can not be over stated.