Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Hepatic Hydatid Cysts in an Endemic Area: A Multi-Center Investigation in Najaf City, Iraq.
Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Hepatic Hydatid Cysts in an Endemic Area: A Multi-Center Investigation in Najaf City, Iraq.
Background Cystic echinococcosis (hydatid cyst) is a significant zoonotic disease endemic to Iraq. Understanding the localized clinical and epidemiological trends is vital for improving surgical outcomes and public health strategies.
Objective To determine the epidemiological and clinical profile of patients diagnosed with liver hydatid cysts within the hospitals of Najaf City, Iraq.
Patients and Methods This retrospective observational study analyzed the records of 350 patients treated for liver hydatid cysts across multiple hospitals in Najaf, Iraq, from February 2021 to June 2024. Data were extracted from official patient records, including sociodemographic characteristics, clinical presentation, cyst morphology, and postoperative complications.
Inclusion Criteria:
All patients of any age or gender with a radiologically or surgically confirmed diagnosis of liver hydatid cyst
Exclusion Criteria:
Patients with hydatid cysts located exclusively in extra-hepatic sites (e.g., brain, lung, bone, spleen, or muscle). Patients with severe chronic comorbidities or incomplete medical records were also excluded to ensure data integrity