Primary cystic echinococcosis of the peritoneum: a case report

Peritoneal cystic echinococcosis happens usually after traumatic rupture or after surgical treatment. Primary peritoneal cystic echinococcosis is a very rare case that constitutes a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

A 30-year-old Tunisian man was admitted for hypogastric pain since 4 months. He has a 10 cm hypogastric mass. Biological-tests were normal. A computed tomography Scan showed a cystic mass on the pelvis measuring 13 × 17 cm without echinococcosis cyst in the liver. The patient was operated and we found a cystic mass of 17 cm located on the Douglas cul-de-sac that suggest a pelvic hydatid cyst. We have performed an aspiration of the cyst confirms the diagnosis followed by injection of hypertonic solution, extarction of the germinal layer and a maximal reduction of the pericyst. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Trough our case, we try to focus on the diagnosis and therapeutic options of this rare entity that we should think of in front of a patient with isolated peritoneal cyst especially in endemic country.