An Unusual Presentation of Hydatid Disease in a Child: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Hydatid cyst, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, typically affects the liver and lungs.
• Subcutaneous hydatid cysts, especially in the abdominal wall of pediatric patients, are exceptionally rare.
• Preoperative diagnosis of subcutaneous hydatid cysts can be challenging, often mistaken for benign tumors like lipomas.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old boy presented with recurrent hemoptysis and a palpable mass in the right lumbar region, initially suspected to be a lipoma.
• Diagnostic workup included laboratory tests and radiological imaging.
• The abdominal wall mass was surgically managed.

Findings:

• Macroscopic and pathological examinations confirmed the presence of a hydatid cyst in the abdominal wall.
• A co-existing thoracic lesion, initially unexplained, resolved spontaneously after episodes of hydatid vomiting.
• This case underscores the possibility of unusual presentations of hydatid disease.

Implications:

• Hydatid cyst should be included in the differential diagnosis for abdominal wall masses, even in pediatric cases.
• Biopsy and partial resection of suspected masses should be avoided to prevent cyst rupture and dissemination.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and preventing complications of hydatid disease.