Hydatid cyst of the thigh: A case report with literature review

Hydatid diseases are cystic parasitic infestation caused by Echinococci. The most frequently affected organs are liver and lung. The aim of this study is to report a rare case of hydatid disease of the thigh.

A 34-year-old female presented with mild, continuous lower abdominal pain. Concomitantly, she was complaining of gradually increasing swelling of the left thigh for about 9 month duration. On examination, there was tender, 3 × 4 cm, suprapubic mass with firm non-tender 10 × 17 cm swelling at the lateral aspect of left thigh. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis thigh hydatid cyst. It was managed by surgical resection.

In endemic regions, hydatidosis can be controlled by several preventive mechanisms including regular medication of definitive hosts by praziquantel, vaccinating sheep, preventing dog's access to intermediate hosts, boiling or safe disposal of offal. The current case reported positive history of animal contact without fulfilling any preventive measure.

Hydatid cyst of the thigh is a very rare parasitic manifestation presenting as a painless swelling, diagnosed typically by MRI and managed with en bloc resection.