Cytology in the percutaneous treatment of hydatid cysts. A report of four cases.

Four cases of percutaneous treatment of hydatid cysts are reported. Cytologic examination of the cyst fluid is important to confirm the diagnosis in patients who did not develop antibodies. Gomori stain gives the best results in identifying the three elements of a hydatid cyst: scolices, hooklets and laminated membranes. Moreover, staining for viability assessment gives information about the success of drug treatment.