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Hydatid cyst causing tension pneumothorax in childhood
1Department of Special Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon
|October 1, 1988
Insights
A rare case of a child with simultaneous lung and liver echinococcosis (parasitic cysts) developed a life-threatening pneumothorax. Diagnosis was delayed until surgery, which was successfully completed in two stages.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Echinococcosis, a parasitic infection caused by tapeworms, can affect multiple organs.
- Pulmonary and hepatic involvement in pediatric echinococcosis is uncommon.
- Tension pneumothorax is a rare but critical complication.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old child presented with symptoms suggestive of a respiratory emergency.
- Concomitant pulmonary and hepatic echinococcosis was identified.
- The presentation mimicked other acute thoracic conditions, delaying diagnosis.
Findings:
- The child developed a tension pneumothorax secondary to echinococcosis.
- Surgical intervention was required for both pulmonary and hepatic cysts.
- The successful two-stage surgical operation managed the complex presentation.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering echinococcosis in pediatric patients with complex respiratory and hepatic presentations.
- Emphasizes the need for high index of suspicion for parasitic infections.
- Underscores the feasibility of staged surgical management for disseminated echinococcosis in children.
Abstract:
A 7-year-old child with concomitant pulmonary and hepatic echinococcosis presenting as a tension pneumothorax is reported. The correct diagnosis was unsuspected until the operation which was performed successfully in two stages.