[Hydatid cyst of the brain. Apropos of a series of 14 cases]

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Cerebral hydatid cysts are rare parasitic infections.
• They typically manifest as intracranial hypertension, potentially with focal neurological deficits.
• Computed tomography (CT) has significantly improved diagnostic capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on a series of 14 cases of cerebral hydatid cysts.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with this rare condition.
• To emphasize the importance of early intervention.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis.
• Review of clinical presentations, diagnostic imaging (primarily CT), and surgical outcomes.
• Evaluation of postoperative neurological sequelae.

Main Results:

• Cerebral hydatid cysts accounted for 1.5% of all hydatid cyst locations.
• Intracranial hypertension was the predominant symptom.
• Twenty-eight percent of patients experienced postoperative neurological sequelae.

Conclusions:

• Cerebral hydatid cysts require prompt surgical management.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize the risk of permanent neurological impairment.
• The prognosis is strongly correlated with the preoperative neurological status.