Ultrasound findings in liver hydatid cysts.

Eighty-one liver hydatid cysts evaluated by gray-scale ultrasound were accumulated in our experience over a period of 2 years. The echographic evidence in accordance with our experience can be categorized as follows: (a) nonsuppurative hydatid cysts in which echo-free area within the fine homogeneous structure of the organ provide the basic clue to the diagnosis; then the echographic appearance of the wall offers further hints to the identity of solitary, multiloculated, and multiple cysts; (b) suppurative hydatid cysts in which, depending on the intensity of secondary microbial infection, the echo-free area turns to a low, medium, or high level of echoes while holding its constitutional pattern. This report is designed to present the various ultrasound patterns of hydatid disease of the liver and show how ultrasound may be most effective in achieving the correct diagnosis.