[Intra-orbital hydatid cysts. 10 cases].

Ten cases of intra-orbital hydatid cysts were operated from January 85 to December 91. The aim of this retrospective study is to show the importance of this pathology with regard to other intra-orbital expansive processes and to discuss the efficiency of neurosurgical approaches. The mean age was 25 years, with 5 women and 5 men. The symptoms consisted in progressive unilateral exophthalmia in 8 cases and acute one in 2 cases. Visual deterioration was observed in 7 cases: a reduced vision acuity in 6 cases and blindness in one case. Fundus oculi showed papillary oedema in 4 cases and optical atrophy in one case. Slight disturbance of ocular mobility was observed in 5 cases. CT Scan gave positive diagnosis and predicted the hydatid nature in 9 cases. Fronto-orbital approach, taking away the squamous portion of the frontal bone, orbital arc and roof, was made in 9 cases. It permitted to remove the cyst without rupture of the capsule in all cases. Fronto-temporal approach was used in one case. The evolution was excellent after 8 months to 6 years in 4 patients. Five patients were improved with reduction of exophthalmia, stabilisation of visual acuity and eye movements. Blindness remained unchanged in one patient.