PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: @entity8434 , the most frequent localization of skeletal hydatidosis, has an ominous prognosis with the risk of progressive but permanent @entity16 . There is no consensus on appropriate management. Treatment is often unsuccessful with frequent recurrence. The purpose of this study was to assess our experience with this rare disease to identify diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic features. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed the charts of three @entity1 with @entity8434 treated at the department of orthopedics at the Casablanca @entity1 's hospital between January 1989 and January 1998. Diagnosis was made early in the first @entity1 , allowing complete excision of the hydatid cyst. Follow-up was uneventful 10 years after surgery. The second @entity1 presented after a long disease course and had @entity16 despite treatment. The lesions were extensive in the third @entity1 and cure could not be achieved although the @entity1 remained asymptomatic. DISCUSSION: @entity8434 is a severe disease causing frequent @entity16 . Surgical treatment, though difficult, is the only efficient option. Complete recovery can be achieved after surgical excision of lesions diagnosed early. Prevention is the best therapeutic strategy in endemic areas.

[ XXXX : three case reports].

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['children', 'patients', 'patient'] @entity8434 :: ('MESH:D004443', 'Disease') :: ['vertebral hydatidosis', 'Vertebral hydatidosis'] @entity16 :: ('MESH:D009422', 'Disease') :: ['neurological damage', 'neurological complications', 'definitive neurological complications']
@entity8434 :: (MESH:D004443,Disease) :: ['Vertebral hydatidosis']
