Clinical and Imaging Findings in the Alveolar Echinococcosis

Aim: To review the imaging features of alveolar echinococcosis in eight patients with involvement of different organs. Material and Methods: Ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) examinations were performed in all patients, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) were performed for two patients. Three patients had involvement of only the liver; two had involvement of lung and liver; one had involvement of only the lung; one had involvement of liver and sternum; and one had lung, liver, and adrenal involvement. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination in all patients. Results: The lesions located in the liver were generally seen as heterogeneous hypoechogenic on US, hypodense on CT, and hypointense solid masses on MRI. These masses included necrosis and calcifications. Vascular flow on CDUS and contrast enhancement on CT and MRI were not observed in any of the lesions. On CT, lung lesions were seen as multiple, nodular, well-defined or ill-defined opacities; some had cavitations caused by necrosis. Conclusion: Knowledge of imaging characteristics of alveolar echinococcosis makes it possible to provide an early diagnosis radiologically. In addition, radiologic findings have an important role in the follow-up. Ultrasound, CT, and MRI are complementary methods in the diagnosis of alveolar echinococcosis.