Misdiagnosis of echinococcal cyst disease of the liver.

Echinococcosis is a disease which is commonly seen in certain parts of the world and uncommonly seen in the United States. Recognition of this disease is important for appropriate surgical management with the least amount of morbidity and mortality. Proper history taking and awareness of this disease will decrease the chance of misdiagnosis. Two cases are presented here, and the salient features of this disease are reviewed, in order to reacquaint the physician.