[Spontaneous cutaneous fistula of hydatid liver cysts]. / La fistulisation cutanée spontanée des kystes hydatiques du foie.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous cutaneous fistula of hydatid liver cysts is a rare complication. Its genesis involves anatomic factors as well as other local factors. AIMS: An exhaustive literature review was conducted to identify the characteristics of this complication, treatment modalities and the results obtained. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An exhaustive bibliographic search was made for all articles published in French and English relating to parietal complications of hydatid liver cyst, from which we retained only those involving cases of cutaneous cyst fistulas (communicating rupture), to which we added our own case. RESULTS: Seventeen cases of cystocutaneous fistula have been reported. The reason for consultation was productive cutaneous fistula. Morphological investigations were highly evocative of the diagnosis. Thirteen patients were treated by surgery, two underwent percutaneous debridement, and two declined treatment. DISCUSSION: Cutaneous fistula constitutes a rare mode of discovery of hydatid cyst. Fistulography and CT scan are extremely useful for diagnosis. Percutaneous debridement of the hydatid cyst represents a debatable alternative to surgical therapy.