Vertebral hydatid cyst infection (Echinococcus granulosus): a case report.

Spinal echinococcosis is a rare but serious condition. Within bone tissue hydatid cysts enlarge by daughter cyst formation. The value of drug treatment in bone echinococcosis is questionable. The aim of surgery is therefore removal of all the cysts. The best way to achieve this is at the first operation early in the progress of the disease. An anterior or circumferential approach is generally required to give the necessary accessibility. Owing to diffuse spread of the infection within the bone and the canal, recurrence is common. If neurological deterioration occurs, reintervention is necessary.