Presentation and management of pancreatic hydatid cyst: A comprehensive systematic review of the literature with meta-data

Abstract

Introduction

Hydatid cysts are among many cysts that can develop in the pancreas. Both the size and location of these cysts significantly influence clinical presentation and surgical approach required for management. This study aims to review the literature concerning pancreatic hydatic cysts, their presentations, and management strategies.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across CINAHL, Pubmed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE Databases to identify English-language studies published up to January 2nd, 2024.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 35.4 ± 17.4years, with females comprising 92 (59.0 %) of the cohort. Abdominal pain was the most common complaint, reported by 92 (59.0 %) patients. Serological testing for the echinococcal antigen demonstrated highest sensitivity at 67.0 %, whereas computed tomography exhibited a sensitivity of 34.1 %, and ultrasonography showed a sensitivity of 27.7 %. Among surgical interventions, laparotomy was the most frequently performed approach, utilized in 42(26.9 %) of the cases.

Conclusion

Although pancreatic hydatid cysts are rare and can be challenging to diagnose, their prognosis is generally favorable when appropriate therapeutic measures are employed. Surgical intervention, often combined with Albendazole, remains the mainstay of treatment.