Unusual location of hydatid cyst: soft tissue mass in the neck

Abstract

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infestation caused by the larval form of the cestode worm Echinococcus. The most commonly encountered form of the disease is visceral hydatid cyst caused by Echinococcus granulosus or dog tapeworm. We hereby represent an unusual case of hydatid disease located in the neck region in a 22-year-old female patient.

Primary Hydatid Cyst: An Unusual Cause of a Mass

“…Hydatid disease, also known as echinococcosis or hydatidosis, is a zoonotic infection caused by the larval forms (metacestode) of Echinococcus granulosus that lives in the small intestines of adult dogs [1]. Hydatic cyst is a prevalent parasitic disease in the Middle east, Mediterranean countries, South America, North Africa and Australia.…”

Hepatic alveolar echinococcosis: a diagnostic challenge

“…The definite diagnosis can be reached by correlating radiological findings with the clinical and laboratory data, and in some cases by the histopathologic work-up. Even the cyst aspiration for diagnosis was considered as a possible risk of anaphylaxis or recurrence due to the spillage, USG guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is used to confirm the diagnosis in some cases (16,17). Especially in endemic regions, if a complex appearing liver lesion is detected, alveolar echinococcosis must be definitely included in the differential diagnosis.…”

Hydatid disease limited to bilateral adrenal glands mimicking tuberculosis

“…Humans are secondarily infected by usage of food and water containing eggs of the parasite which are contaminated by dog feces. [5] Echinococcus cysts are mostly seen in the liver (50-70%) and lungs (20%). Adrenal gland involvement is seen in 0.5% of cases and is usually unilateral.…”

“…[13] Although FNA may be useful for diagnosing adrenal cystic lesions, it is not recommended in case of hydatid cyst, since there is a risk of disseminated infection and allergic reactions. [5] The fluid aspirated from the hydatid cyst is mostly clear and it consists of debris, few inflammatory cells, and numerous scoleces. The aspirate in old cysts may contain large fragments of stratified layer of the cyst wall with a dirty background of debris including hooklets, which are diagnostic of the disease.…”

“…[15] During surgery special attention should be paid to avoid spilling the contents, since dissemination and severe allergic reactions can occur. [5] When complete removal is not accomplished, surgical treatment is not curative. In such instances additional medical treatment with antihelmintic drugs is indicated.…”