Laparoscopic management of giant hepatic hydatid cyst in a 12-year-old boy: a case report

Hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by a parasite, Echinococcus granulosus, characterized by a cystic lesion in the liver, lung, or (rarely) in other parts of the body. Typical radiological findings make the diagnosis easy and help the surgeons to plan the management of hydatid disease. We report a case of giant hepatic hydatid cyst in a 12-year-old boy who presented with epigastric swelling and pain for 6 months. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography findings were highly suggestive of a giant hydatid cyst in the left lateral segment of the liver. Laparoscopic partial pericystectomy was done. The patient was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. The patient took oral albendazole preoperatively and postoperatively. Laparoscopic management of hepatic hydatid cysts is safe and effective. Laparoscopic approach is recommended with good technique and controlled suction of cyst content. Surgery combined with oral antihelminthics is the mainstay of treatment for hepatic hydatidosis.