Hydatid peritonitis caused by liver hydatid cyst rupture into the peritoneal cavity: A case report

Hydatid disease predominantly affects the liver and poses a global health concern in regions with significant livestock presence. Hydatid peritonitis, a rare complication, arises when a liver hydatid cyst ruptures into the peritoneal cavity, posing a potential threat to the patient's life.

We present a case of a 45-year-old female with abdominal distension, tenderness, and altered general status following an abdominal contusion. Imaging revealed ruptured hydatid cysts in the liver, causing complicated hydatid peritonitis. Emergency laparotomy and various surgical procedures, including cyst evacuation, cholecystectomy, and drainage placement, were performed. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful with albendazole therapy.

Rupture of liver hydatid cysts into the peritoneal cavity is a rare but serious complication, affecting 1 % to 16 % of cases. Factors contributing to rupture include young age, cyst diameter exceeding 10 cm, and superficial lesion location. Clinical presentation varies, and prompt diagnosis through imaging, such as CT scans, is crucial. Surgical intervention is the primary management, focusing on cyst removal, prevention of anaphylactic shock, and peritoneal lavage with scolicidal solutions.

The rupture of liver hydatid cysts into the peritoneal cavity is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. Early diagnosis and emergent surgical intervention are critical for improved outcomes. Postoperative albendazole treatment and close follow-up contribute to reducing recurrence risk. Public health measures, including hygiene practices and canine vaccination, play a crucial role in preventing the spread of hydatid disease. Early detection and intervention can mitigate complications and enhance outcomes in hydatid disease cases.