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[Tamponade reveals an intra-pericardial hydatid cyst - a case report]
S Elkarimi1, N Ouldelgadia2, H Gacem1
1Service de cardiologie, FMPM, PCIM, CHU Mohammed VI, Marrakech, Maroc.
Annales De Cardiologie Et D'Angeiologie
|March 23, 2012
Summary
Intra-pericardial hydatid disease, a rare parasitic infection, can cause cardiac tamponade. This case highlights the importance of considering this diagnosis in endemic regions, even without cardiac involvement.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hydatid disease is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus larvae.
- It is endemic in regions like the Mediterranean basin and North Africa.
- Intra-pericardial hydatidosis without cardiac involvement is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old male presented with cardiac tamponade, muffled heart sounds, and right heart failure signs.
- Echocardiography revealed significant pericardial effusion and intra-pericardial vesicular formations suggestive of hydatid disease.
- Emergency surgical drainage yielded fluid and cysts, with pathological examination confirming a pericardial hydatid cyst.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of intra-pericardial hydatid cyst confirmed via pathological examination.
- Imaging (CT, ultrasound) ruled out other hydatid locations.
- Patient responded well to surgical drainage and medical treatment with Albendazole.
Implications:
- Intra-pericardial hydatid disease is a critical, albeit rare, cause of cardiac tamponade.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.
- Awareness of this condition is vital for clinicians in endemic areas.
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