Conservative management of asymptomatic hepatic hydatid cyst in pregnancy: our experience in seven patients

Introduction: To present our experience about the safety of conservative management in asymptomatic and noncomplicated hepatic hydatid cyst in pregnancy. Methods: Seven pregnant patients with hepatic hydatid cysts as an incidental finding in routine obstetrical ultrasonography were referred to our center during 2001 to 2008. Three patients were visited in the second and the rest in the third trimester of their pregnancy. It was found that all of them had asymptomatic and noncomplicated cysts. They were suggested to participate in our close conservative plan as their treating method. Monthly ultrasonography and clinical examination was performed to find out any changes in size or clinical course of the cysts. Results: Cesarean section and simultaneous surgical treatment of the cyst were performed in three patients while for the rest went through a natural vaginal delivery and surgical treatment of the cysts were postponed until six weeks after delivery. No complication was seen in these two groups. Conclusions: Conservative management of asymptomatic and noncomplicated hepatic hydatid cysts until delivery may be a safe method in management of hepatic hydatid cysts in pregnancy which prevents preterm labor and other cyst related procedures complications.