When size matters: Managing a giant pulmonary hydatid cyst in a pediatric patient: Case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Parasitology
• Thoracic Medicine

Background:

• Giant pulmonary hydatid cysts are uncommon in pediatric patients, often presenting with vague symptoms that delay diagnosis.
• Preservation of lung parenchyma is a key surgical goal in managing these rare cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first case of a giant pulmonary hydatid cyst in a Palestinian child.
• To highlight the diagnostic and surgical management of this rare condition in a pediatric patient.

Main Methods:

• A 5-year-old girl presented with symptoms initially misdiagnosed as gastroenteritis.
• Diagnostic imaging (Chest X-ray, CT) revealed a large hydatid cyst (>90% of left lower lobe) with pleural effusion.
• A hybrid approach combining lateral thoracotomy and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was employed for cyst evacuation and sterilization.

Main Results:

• The surgical procedure successfully removed the giant pulmonary hydatid cyst.
• The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and was discharged in stable condition after 6 days.
• Lung parenchyma was preserved during the intervention.

Conclusions:

• Early and accurate imaging is crucial for timely diagnosis of pulmonary hydatid cysts.
• Hybrid surgical techniques offer a viable option for large cyst removal while preserving lung function.
• Hydatid disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis for children with unexplained respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms in endemic regions.