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Published on: July 18, 2014
Unusual cause of syncope in a 17 year-old young woman: left ventricular hydatid cyst
Insights
Cardiac echinococcosis is rare and can cause confusing symptoms. This case highlights a young woman with a large hydatid cyst in her left ventricle, successfully treated with surgery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cardiac echinococcosis is a rare parasitic infection with often nonspecific symptoms.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to atypical presentation.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old female presented with recurrent exertional syncope.
- Cardiac imaging revealed a massive hydatid cyst within the left ventricular cavity, obstructing the outflow tract.
Findings:
- Echocardiography, serologies, and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of cardiac echinococcosis.
- The hydatid cyst was completely removed via surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare parasitic infections in cardiac diagnostics.
- Complete surgical excision offers excellent outcomes for cardiac hydatid cysts.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing cardiac echinococcosis.
Abstract:
Cardiac involvement in echinococcosis remains a singular finding, possibly associated with confusing symptomatology. We report the original case of a 17 year-old young woman, referred to our cardiology department for repeated exertion syncopes, and ultimately, proven through echocardiography, serologies and magnetic resonance imaging to have a massive hydatid cyst developing inside the left ventricular cavity towards the outflow tract. The cyst has been surgically completely removed with excellent results.
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