The importance of indirect hemagglutination assay test and eosinophilia in follow-up of calcified liver hydatid cyst: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Calcified liver cystic echinococcosis(C-LCE) does not require interventional treatment but necessitates regular monitoring. The assessment of C-LCE commonly involves radiological, serological and hematological examinations. This study investigates the correlation between eosinophilia and serological test results in patients with radiologically confirmed C-LCE.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 25 patients diagnosed with C-LCE through radiological imaging who were treated in surgery departments between 2010 and 2017. The levels of indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) and peripheral eosinophilia counts were analyzed. Patients with an IHA titer of ≤1/320 and negative peripheral eosinophilia were not administered chemotherapy, while those with higher titers received treatment and follow-up care.

Results: The majority of patients were female. All cysts were solitary and localized in the right hepatic lobe. Imaging results were consistent with C-LCE. IHA positivity was observed in 22 patients, with seven of them exhibiting eosinophilia. A direct association was noted between high IHA titers and the presence of eosinophilia.

Conclusion: Interventional treatment for C-LCE carries significant risks, including infection and fistula formation. Therefore, non-invasive follow-up strategies using radiological, hematological and serological tests are recommended. Evaluating peripheral eosinophil levels alongside serological markers can enhance treatment decision-making