Seven patients with uncomplicated hepatic hydatid cysts (Echinococcus granulosus) were treated with albendazole 10 mg/kg/day for 2-6 months (mean 4 months). Serial sonographic evaluation showed reduction in cyst size in only 1 patient (the anteroposterior diameter decreased from 16.5 cm to 4.9 cm). Therapy in this patient was discontinued after 4 months due to development of jaundice. Albendazole appears to have a limited role in the treatment of hydatid disease of the liver.