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Endobronchial echinococcosis presenting as non-resolving pneumonia
Raffi Lev-Tzion1, Aviv D Goldbart
1Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110-1093, USA. lev-tzion_r@kids.wustl.edu
Pediatric Pulmonology
|December 14, 2011
Summary
Pulmonary echinococcosis, a lung infection from Echinococcus tapeworm larvae, can mimic tuberculosis. This case highlights the need to consider rare diagnoses like hydatid disease, even with common symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Hydatid disease of the lungs results from Echinococcus tapeworm larval cysts.
- Pulmonary cysts can invade adjacent structures due to increased pressure or trauma.
Observation:
- A patient presented with non-resolving pneumonia.
- Radiographic and bronchoscopic findings mimicked pulmonary tuberculosis with endobronchial invasion.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with pulmonary echinococcosis.
- This diagnosis was made despite initial presentation suggesting a more common condition.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of considering rare differential diagnoses in respiratory medicine.
- Highlights the need for comprehensive evaluation when typical presentations are misleading.
- Underscores the diagnostic challenge posed by pulmonary echinococcosis mimicking other lung diseases.
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