Echinococcosis of the rib with epidural extension: a rare cause of paraplegia

Skeletal echinococcosis is a relatively rare entity and that of the rib is exceptional. Less than 50 cases of costal echinococcosis have been reported in the literature so far. Accurate pre-operative diagnosis aids in appropriate management and helps to eradicate the disease. This also prevents the dissemination of parasite and further complications. We report a case of echinococcosis of the rib with epidural extension in a young adult who presented with paraparesis and back pain. His laboratory investigations were within normal limits. Plain radiographs of the dorsal spine, CT scan of thorax and MRI of dorsal spine were performed. The imaging features were suggestive of echinococcosis involving the rib with epidural extension. The cyst was completely resected. Histopathology of the resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis of echinococcosis.

Female genital tuberculosis: hysterosalpingographic appearances

Genital tuberculosis is an important cause of infertility in developing countries and hysterosalpingography (HSG) is the initial procedure performed for the evaluation. Reviewing 37 cases of female genital tuberculosis, we encountered various appearances on HSG. Of 579 HSGs performed over a period of 4 years, 492 (85%) were performed as part of infertility work up. Genital tuberculosis was found in 6.3% of all the patients who underwent HSGs and 7.5% of all patients investigated for infertility. The various features of proven tuberculosis cases are illustrated in this pictorial review. We briefly discuss the pathology and these appearances along with radiopathological correlation.

Imaging features and guided drainage in emphysematous pyelonephritis: a study of 11 cases

AIM

The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the role of image-guided drainage in emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 11 patients with EPN treated either by ultrasonography (three patients) or computed tomography (CT)-guided drainage (eight patients). There were eight male and three female patients in our study with ages ranging from 24 to 75 years, mean 56.3 years. All the patients underwent plain radiography, ultrasonography and plain CT of the abdomen. Contrast-enhanced CT was performed in seven patients.

RESULTS

Seven of 11 patients, were successfully treated with per cutaneous drainage. One patient died within 24 h (case 2), due to septicaemia. Three patients subsequently required nephrectomy. Replacement of the drainage catheter was required in one patient. The catheter was kept in situ, for an average of 17 days. The catheter drained pus and gas in all patients. The quantity of pus ranged from 300 to 2000 cm(3). All 10 patients improved symptomatically within 24 h of drainage, with improved urine output and serum creatinine levels within 48 h.

CONCLUSION

CT-guided drainage of EPN has established itself as a safe, quick and life-saving palliative treatment of choice as opposed to conventional emergency nephrectomy. Excluding the patient who died, the success rate of our study was 70%.

Fetus in fetu. Rare cause of a lump in an adult's abdomen

Fetus in fetu is a rare entity. The patient usually presents in childhood. A case in which the patient presented in adulthood, with a lump in the abdomen, is reported. Computed tomography findings were diagnostic of this condition and a prospective diagnosis could be made. Computed tomography also helped to differentiate it from mature teratoma.