Hydatid Cyst of Liver: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

06 Aug, 2025

Expert Insights by Dr.Vivek Mangla – Senior GI & HPB Cancer Surgeon, Max Hospital, Delhi NCR

Hydatid cyst is a rare but potentially serious liver infection caused by a parasite called Echinococcus. In India, this condition is more common than people think — often going undiagnosed until symptoms appear. In this blog, Dr.VivekMangla, Senior GI & HPB Surgeon at Max Hospital, Delhi NCR, explains everything you need to know about hydatid cysts — from how they spread to how they’re treated.

What is a Hydatid Cyst?

Hydatid cyst is a parasitic infection caused by the Echinococcus tapeworm. It most commonly affects the liver, but in some cases, it can also occur in the lungs or other parts of the abdomen. This condition is medically referred to as cystic echinococcosis.

How does it Spread?

According to Dr. Mangla, infection happens due to:

• Consumption of contaminated food or water
• Eating undercooked or infected meat
• Contact with infected pets or their feces, especially in rural or semi-urban areas

Common Symptoms of Hydatid Cyst

Hydatid cysts may remain asymptomatic for a long time. However, as they grow, they can cause:

• Pain or heaviness in the upper abdomen
• Fever
• Feeling of fullness or discomfort

In some cases, complications like pus formation, liver tissue damage, or bile duct obstruction may occur.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hydatid cyst typically involves:

• Ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the cyst
• Serology tests (Hydatid IgG ELISA) to confirm parasitic infection

These help differentiate between active and inactive cysts, which is important for deciding treatment.

Treatment Options Explained by Dr.Vivek Mangla

There are three main modalities used to treat hydatid cysts:

1. Medical Management

• Albendazole is prescribed for several weeks before and after treatment.
• It reduces the risk of recurrence and supports healing.
• Should always be taken under medical supervision.

2. PAIR Procedure

This minimally invasive radiological method involves:

• Puncture of the cyst
• Aspiration of the contents
• Injection of a scolicidal agent
• Re-aspiration

It is effective for small, uncomplicated cysts and is done under ultrasound guidance. Sometimes, it needs to be repeated.

3. Surgical Treatment

In more complicated or large cysts:

• The entire cyst (along with infected tissue) may be surgically removed.
• Surgery ensures complete eradication and is generally safe.
• Mangla notes that 95% of patients recover within 4–5 days and are discharged home.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is key to avoiding hydatid disease:

• Wash hands thoroughly, especially after handling pets
• Eat well-cooked meat
• Drink clean, filtered water
• Maintain proper food hygiene

Why Choose Dr. Vivek Mangla for Hydatid Cyst Treatment?

• Over 20 years of surgical experience
• Specialist in liver, GI, and HPB surgeries
• Offers advanced laparoscopic and open procedures
• Based at Max Patparganj and Max Vaishali, Delhi NCR
• Known for his patient-centric approach and excellent outcomes

Book a Consultation

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a hydatid cyst or showing symptoms like upper abdominal pain and unexplained fever, don’t delay. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent complications.

Meet Dr.Vivek Mangla, senior Liver Surgeon in Delhi NCR, at Max Hospital.

Call or WhatsApp on the appointment numbers in the description
Visit www.drvivekmangla.com to know more