Cardiac hydatid cyst presenting as double-chambered left ventricle

Abstract

A 55-year-old woman who lived in a village was admitted with dyspnea that had begun over 3 months prior. Initial examination was unremarkable. Chest x-ray and 12-lead electrocardiogram were normal. Transthoracic e c h o c a r d i o g r a p h y (TTE) was performed. Two-dimensional and 3-dimensional echocardiogram showed presence of a large intramural cystic mass attached to the posterolateral wall of the left ventricular cavity. No significant blood flow into the cyst was observed on Doppler echocardiography (Figures). Subsequently, a serological test for specific Echinococcus antibodies was performed, the result of which was consistent with Echinococcus granulosus. Ultimately, the patient was referred to cardiac surgery for resection of cyst, with diagnosis of cardiac cyst hydatid. In spite of advice, the patient refused surgical treatment. Albendazole 800 mg/day was prescribed. Echo monitoring every 6 months was recommended. Hydatid cysts may locate in any organ and present with various non-specific symptoms. Therefore, cardiac cyst hydatid should always be kept in mind when patients from endemic areas present with cardiac or paracardiac cystic masses and complain of non-specific cardiac symptoms. 350