[Hydatid torsion as a cause of acute scrotum--clinical, sonographic and anatomic aspects].

Out of 82 patients with acute swelling of the scrotum, 25 (30.5%) had hydatid torsion. Hydatid torsion was the second most common cause of acute scrotal swelling in the entire patient group. In the group of patients up to 14 years of age (n = 36), hydatid torsion was found in 47.2% and was the most common cause of acute scrotal swelling, followed by torsion of the spermatic cord. Only 3 patients had torsion of an appendage of the epididymis. All other patients (n = 22) had torsion of the hydatid of Morgagni (appendage of the testicle). A difference in anatomical structure and vascularization during childhood seems to be the most important aspect regarding hydatid torsion and hemorrhagic infarction. Ultrasonographic examination of the scrotum and checking to see if the typical physical signs are present can help in making the exact diagnosis. In 13 patients with hydatid torsion, the scrotum was examined with ultrasound high-frequency transducers (7.5, 10 and 12 MHz). In 4 patients, the diagnosis was hydatid torsion, as determined by ultrasonography. Two patients were treated conservatively with a daily follow-up including a clinical examination and investigation of the scrotum with ultrasound. The patients recovered very quickly and the acute symptoms resolved within a few days in virtually all instances. Thus, in cases where the diagnosis is proven and the course of the disease is reasonably mild and painless, conservative management of intrascrotal hydatid torsion is possible and can be an effective means of treatment in lien of surgical intervention.