A descriptive case review of cardiac hydatid disease
Date
2019
Authors
Essa, Abubakr
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Abstract
Background
Cardiac specific hydatid disease is a rare occurrence with limited previous descriptions of in a
Southern African context. It poses significant health problems in undeveloped and
developing countries, and as it is thought to be endemic in this area, it is likely to be underdiagnosed
and under-reported, particularly with the lack of suitably available imaging
modalities in rural areas.
Objectives
The study purpose was to identify cases of cardiac hydatid disease, and describe these cases
comprehensively.
Methods
All adult patients diagnosed with cardiac hydatid disease from 01 January 1999 to 31
December 2015, at the Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, at Chris Hani
Baragwanath Hospital, and an undisclosed private hospital, in Johannesburg, South Africa
were considered. Cases were obtained from the cardiology unit discharge summaries with
the records and pertinent data entered onto a data collection sheet.
Results
Four cases of cardiac hydatid disease were discovered, and are described individually. Three
cases had exclusive cardiac involvement. There were diverse presentations and locations of
their cysts, with all patients being both medically and surgically treated.
Conclusion
Transthoracic echocardiography is the fundamental mode of investigation in diagnosing
cardiac hydatid disease, particularly due to its varied presentations. Further research is
encouraged to support shorter treatment durations where surgery is performed.
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of
Witwatersrand, in partial fulfillment for the requirements of the degree of
Master of Medicine, Johannesburg 2019