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Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans
Published on: August 28, 2018
Coronary narrowing secondary to compression by pericardial hydatid cyst
Insights
A rare pericardial hydatid cyst mimicked acute coronary syndrome. Diagnosis involved echocardiography, MRI, and serology, with albendazole treatment used when surgery was refused.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Echinococcus granulosus infections are prevalent in developing regions, typically affecting the liver and lungs.
- Cardiac involvement by Echinococcus granulosus is rare, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A case report details a pericardial hydatid cyst compressing the left ventricle.
- The cyst's location mimicked symptoms of acute coronary syndrome.
Findings:
- Transthoracic 2D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and serologic tests confirmed the diagnosis.
- The patient received albendazole therapy due to refusal of surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Recognizing this rare presentation of Echinococcus granulosus is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- Prompt identification can prevent severe complications associated with pericardial hydatid cysts.
Abstract:
Echinococcus granulosus remains a clinical problem in undeveloped and developing countries. It commonly affects the liver and lung, but, rarely, other organs such as the heart can be involved. In this report, we describe an unusual case in which pericardial hydatid cyst mimicking acute coronary syndrome secondary to compression by pericardial hydatid cyst attached to the anterolateral wall of the left ventricle. We made diagnosis by transthoracic 2D echocardiography, and confirmed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and serologic tests. Because our patient refused to have an operation, albendazole therapy was given. It is important to recognize this unusual disease, because it may lead to serious complications.
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