Hydatid disease associated with hepatic outflow tract obstruction.

Three unusual cases of hydatid disease associated with hepatic outflow tract obstruction are presented. One had Echinococcus multilocularis infection with complete obstruction of the inferior vena cava and the other two had E. granulosus infection with complete obstruction of the hepatic vein. The initial two were unsuspected clinically. The cases suggest that both outflow obstruction and hydatid disease may often be unrecognized. A high index of suspicion and appropriate investigation are essential for diagnosis and proper management.