[Hydatid cyst of the thyroid in a child]

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Hydatidosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus.
• Thyroid gland involvement is an exceptionally rare manifestation of hydatidosis.
• This case highlights a pediatric instance of thyroid hydatidosis.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old boy presented with a neck mass suggestive of a cystic thyroid nodule on ultrasound.
• Diagnostic imaging, including hepatic ultrasound and chest radiography, revealed no other organ involvement.
• Hydatid serology tests were negative, complicating initial diagnosis.

Findings:

• Surgical excision via cervicotomy confirmed a hydatid cyst within the thyroid gland.
• The cyst contained clear fluid and characteristic membranes, confirming hydatid origin.
• No recurrence was observed 9 months post-surgery.

Implications:

• Thyroid hydatidosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of anterior cervical masses, especially in endemic regions.
• Complete surgical resection, including cystectomy and thyroidectomy, is the definitive treatment.
• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric thyroid hydatidosis.