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Isolated large hydatid cyst in the kidney of an elderly man
Antonina Di Benedetto1, Luciano Macchione, Giuseppe Ciccarello
1Department of Urology, University of Messina, Italy.
Abstract:
Cystic disease (CD) is a parasitic infestation by Echinococcus granulosus and occurs endemically in many countries, associated with sheep farming. Renal involvement is rare (2-4%) and is often indicative of disseminated disease. Echinococcal larvae can reach the kidneys through the bloodstream or lymph glands or through a direct route. The larvae grow slowly, and patients bearing larvae are typically asymptomatic. We report the case of a 79-year-old male with an isolated hydatid cyst in the kidney and describe its management by transperitoneal nephrectomy. Diagnosis was based on epidemiology and imaging findings, and was confirmed by histopathological and serum examinations.
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