A rare case of hydatid cyst presenting as a breast cancer. A case report

Hydatid disease, caused by the Echinococcus parasite, is a significant health concern in endemic regions. While commonly found in the liver and lungs, breast involvement is rare. We present a case of a hydatid cyst in the breast of a 34-year-old woman from Ethiopia, initially suspected to be breast cancer.

A 34-year-old woman was admitted to our Hospital with a progressive, painless swelling in her left breast that had persisted for nine months. The patient first noticed the mass while showering and reported no associated symptoms such as discharge, skin changes, or ulceration. There was no family history of breast cancer, trauma, or breast surgery. Physical examination revealed a non-tender, hard mass measuring 6 by 8 cm in the upper outer quadrant of the left breast, fixed to the skin without overlying skin changes.

The initial clinical suspicion was breast cancer. Further evaluation included FNAC, which yielded crystal-clear fluid containing laminated metachromatic materials. Ultrasound imaging revealed an anechoic cystic mass with a double-layered wall and posterior acoustic enhancement. Surgical intervention was performed to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Intraoperatively, a 4 by 6 cm cystic mass was identified, adherent to the surrounding breast tissue. The final diagnosis was confirmed as a hydatid cyst of the breast.

This case underscores the importance of considering differential diagnoses in patients presenting with breast masses, particularly in endemic regions for hydatid disease. Awareness of such atypical presentations can lead to timely and appropriate management.