Giant hydronephrosis mimicking echinococcal cyst

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Radiology
• Surgical Case Reports

Background:

• Giant hydronephrosis, characterized by significant renal pelvis dilation, is an uncommon condition.
• Typical fluid volumes in hydronephrosis rarely exceed 1-2 liters.

Observation:

• A rare case of extreme giant hydronephrosis was encountered.
• The condition presented as a massive abdominal mass, weighing over 17.5 Kg.
• Initial diagnostic imaging suggested a large echinococcal cyst.

Findings:

• The final diagnosis confirmed giant hydronephrosis with an unprecedented fluid collection.
• Surgical intervention was required to manage the massive renal pelvis distension.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for extreme presentations of hydronephrosis, challenging typical clinical expectations.
• It underscores the importance of comprehensive differential diagnosis in cases of large abdominal masses.
• Such extreme cases may necessitate advanced surgical techniques for effective management.