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Extremely rare cardiac involvement: recurrent pericardial hydatid cyst
Ibrahim Akpinar1, Sebahat Tekeli, Taner Sen
1Department of Cardiology, Zonguldak Karaelmas University, Faculty of Medicine, Turkey. dr.ibrahimakpinar@gmail.com
Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|February 16, 2012
Summary
Echinococcus granulosus, a common parasite, can rarely affect the heart. This case highlights a recurrent pericardial hydatid cyst causing significant cardiac symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Echinococcus granulosus is a common parasitic infection in livestock-raising regions.
- While typically affecting the liver and lungs, cardiac involvement is rare but clinically significant.
- Pericardial hydatid cysts represent an extremely uncommon manifestation of Echinococcus granulosus.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old male presented with exertional dyspnea, palpitations, and presyncope.
- These symptoms were attributed to a recurrent pericardial hydatid cyst.
- The patient had a history of previous surgical intervention for a similar condition.
Findings:
- Transthoracic echocardiography revealed findings consistent with a pericardial hydatid cyst.
- Computed tomography provided detailed anatomical information of the cyst.
- Surgical history was crucial in diagnosing the recurrent nature of the condition.
Implications:
- Recurrent pericardial hydatid cysts, though rare, can lead to severe cardiac complications.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for patients presenting with cardiac symptoms and a history of echinococcosis.
- This case underscores the importance of considering parasitic etiologies in cardiac conditions, especially in endemic areas.
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