Methods
The cohort comprised eight children investigated for persistent
respiratory symptoms and/or persistent radiological abnormalities.
Hydatid cyst was considered as a differential diagnosis in five of them.
A complete blood count and differential was done in all children. Chest
xrays and CT films were reviewed by a Pediatric Radiologist. Abdominal
ultrasonography was used to screen for extrapulmonary cysts. An IgG
titre of 1:800 on ELISA was considered positive hydatid serology.
All children underwent flexible fibreoptic bronchoscopy (FFOB) under
conscious sedation using a 3.6 mm or 4.8 mm scope. Prior written,
informed consent was obtained from a parent, as per the institutional
protocol. Sedation was administered using oral triclofos (50 mg/kg) and
intravenous midazolam (0.1 mg/kg). Bronchoscopy findings were recorded
and BAL fluid was examined. The sediment of centrifuged fluid was also
examined. Whenever possible, aspirated material was also sent for
histopathologic examination. No lung biopsies were taken during the
procedure.