Echinococcal cyst of the kidney: a review of the management of 11 cases.

Echinococcal cyst of the kidney is uncommon, accounting for only 2 to 3% of all hydatid diseases. This study is a review of 11 cases of echinococcal cysts all of which were located in the kidney. All patients presented non-specific clinical symptoms. Serologic tests were carried out and excretory urography and sonography were taken. Computed tomography was performed in five patients. Out of 11 cases, four underwent total nephrectomy, and seven enucleation. Albeit rare, hydatid disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of space-occupying lesions of the urinary tract.