Op.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ logosuSafra Kesesi AntalyaOp.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ | Genel Cerrahi Uzmanı

What Is Hydatid Cyst and How Is It Treated?

Last updated: 27 June 2026Medical content lead: Op.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ

Hydatid cyst (echinococcosis) is a cystic disease caused by ingesting eggs of the Echinococcus parasite. The treatment plan depends on WHO cyst classification, size and location.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound, CT or MRI characterize the cyst; serology supports the diagnosis.

Treatment options

  • Surgery
  • Percutaneous intervention (PAIR)
  • Drug therapy with agents such as albendazole
  • Follow-up of some inactive cysts

Prevention

  • Hand hygiene
  • Thoroughly washing fruit and vegetables
  • Caution for people with animal contact

Frequently Asked Questions

It is not transmitted person-to-person; infection occurs through ingestion of parasite eggs.

Related Pages

Hepatic Hydatid Cyst
Hydatid cyst is a parasitic cyst that can develop in the liver. Treatment depends on location, size and patient status.
Liver Cyst
Most liver cysts are observed; large, painful or complicated cysts may need surgical evaluation.
Liver Abscess
Liver abscess may present with fever, right upper abdominal pain and fatigue. Antibiotics and drainage are mainstays.

Contact & Information

WhatsApp, phone and e-mail are for administrative matters only, such as appointments and directions. Please do not send a summary of symptoms or complaints, test results, ultrasound or other images, reports, prescriptions, ID documents or any other health or sensitive personal data; no diagnosis, treatment or preliminary assessment is provided by message. In an emergency do not wait for a reply: call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Contact via WhatsApp

The information on this page is provided for general patient education only and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or any surgical decision. An assessment appropriate for you can only be made after a clinical examination and the necessary investigations.