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A complicated case of pericardial hydatid cyst manifesting as constrictive pericarditis
A Karadede1, M S Ulgen, A V Temamogullari
1Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey. akaradede@hotmail.com
The Canadian Journal of Cardiology
|June 2, 2000
Insights
Cardiac hydatid cysts are rare, but rupture into the pericardial sac can cause constrictive pericarditis. This case highlights a unique presentation of a hydatid cyst leading to this serious cardiac complication.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Parasitology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Hydatid cyst disease, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, typically affects the liver and lungs.
- Cardiac involvement is rare, accounting for less than 2% of all hydatid cysts.
- Constrictive pericarditis is an uncommon but severe complication of cardiac hydatid disease.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of cardiac compromise.
- A hydatid cyst was identified in the right cardiophrenic angle, anterior to the right ventricle.
- The cyst ruptured into the pericardial sac, leading to significant inflammation and fluid accumulation.
Findings:
- The rupture of the hydatid cyst into the pericardial space triggered an intense inflammatory response.
- The inflammation and subsequent fibrosis resulted in the development of constrictive pericarditis.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through imaging and serological tests, with surgical intervention being crucial.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare etiologies, such as hydatid cysts, in patients with constrictive pericarditis.
- Early diagnosis and prompt management are critical to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Highlights the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding the potential for cardiac hydatid disease, even in non-endemic areas.
Abstract:
Although cardiac involvement with hydatid cyst is quite rare as a major complication, constrictive pericarditis is even less common. A 55-year-old man is presented in whom a hydatid cyst located in the right cardiophrenic angle anterior to the right ventricle ruptured into the pericardial sac, resulting in constrictive pericarditis.