An arcane case report of primary intramuscular hydatid cyst of thigh

Hydatid diseases are a cystic parasitic infestation caused by Echinococci which are endemic to parts of India and commonly occur in agricultural workers. Primary intramuscular hydatidosis is a rare manifestation of hydatid disease.

Our case report describes a rare case of primary intramuscular hydatidosis in an agricultural worker with no involvement of any other viscera. This was diagnosed with clinical evaluation, radiological modalities and managed surgically.

Hydatid disease is endemic in parts of India. Primary intramuscular hydatidosis is uncommon because the lactic acid in the muscle and muscle contractility hinders the development of cysts making it improbable diagnosis on first presentation. Hydatid cyst demonstrates a wide variety of imaging features, which can vary according to growth stage, associated complications and affected tissue. The treatment of choice is complete surgical excision of the cyst along with thorough irrigation of the surrounding soft tissues combined with the use of systemic antiparasitic drugs after surgery.

In a patient of an agricultural background of cattle rearing living in an endemic region and presenting with a swelling in the musculoskeletal system, a suspicion of hydatidosis should always be kept in the clinicians mind, so that it can be diagnosed using a multimodal approach and managed properly in a timely manner.