Cutaneous fistulization: An extremely rare presentation of hydatid liver cyst in a child

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Parasitology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Hydatid disease, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, is a parasitic infection endemic in many regions.
• Complicated hydatid disease can manifest with unusual presentations, including cutaneous involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of cutaneous fistulization of a hepatic hydatid cyst in a child.
• To highlight the importance of considering complicated hydatid disease in the differential diagnosis of abdominal wall lesions.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 10-year-old child with a left abdominal wall lesion.
• Diagnostic workup included clinical examination, radiological imaging, and intraoperative findings.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. Treatment involved a combination of medical and surgical management.

Main Results:

• The lesion was diagnosed as a cutaneous fistulization of a hydatid cyst originating from the left lobe of the liver.
• The child achieved a successful outcome following combined medical and surgical treatment.

Conclusions:

• Cutaneous fistulization of hepatic hydatid cysts is a rare but possible complication.
• This case underscores the need to include complicated hydatid disease in the differential diagnosis for abdominal wall fistulas, especially in endemic areas.