CT and MRI findings of renal infestation by a huge active hydatid cyst

Hydatid cysts derived from a type of tapeworm called Echinococcus granulosis larvaes which can situate in various organs or tissues in human body. It encounters as an endemic zoonosis in many regions all over the world including eastern part of Turkey. Renal involvement of hydatid cysts is uncommon even in endemic areas. The imaging properties vary according to the phase of the disease. Although it is a benign condition, the diagnosis of a renal hydatid cyst is critical in managing treatment and complications, such as nephrectomy, medical treatment before surgery and the risk of anaphylaxis or dissemination during intervention. Herein authors reported a case of an isolated involvement of the right kidney by a huge active hydatid cyst in a young man who was treated surgically, emphasising its ultrasound, CT, contrast-enhanced MR and diffusion-weighted imaging findings.