Isolated renal and retroperitoneal hydatid cysts: a report of 23 cases.

Isolated extrarenal retroperitoneal and renal echinococcal cysts are rare manifestations of hydatid disease. We report 23 cases of renal and other retroperitoneal hydatid cysts diagnosed and treated in our clinic. Flank pain, abdominal mass and non-specific symptoms such as nausea and vomiting were the major symptoms. Indirect haemagglutination test was positive in 18 cases and eosinophilia in four cases. Among imaging studies computerized tomography was the most valuable diagnostic examination. A high index of suspicion is needed for preoperative diagnosis of hydatid disease of kidney and retroperitoneum.