Recurrent primary hydatid disease of the tibia

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Hydatid disease is caused by Echinococcus, with humans as accidental hosts.
• The liver and lungs are commonly affected; skeletal involvement is rare.
• Primary tibial hydatid cysts are exceptionally uncommon in medical literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of primary hydatid cyst of the tibia.
• To discuss the diagnostic challenges and clinical presentation.
• To underscore the importance of considering hydatid disease in endemic populations.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient with a tibial lesion.
• Review of clinical presentation, imaging, and pathological findings.
• Discussion of differential diagnosis for cystic bone lesions.

Main Results:

• A primary hydatid cyst of the tibia presented as a pathologic fracture.
• The condition mimicked a benign bone cystic lesion preoperatively.
• Hydatid bone disease was not initially suspected.

Conclusions:

• Hydatid bone disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cystic bone lesions.
• Especially important for patients from regions where Echinococcus infection is endemic.
• Early consideration can prevent misdiagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.