Hydatid Cyst Pleural and Pericardial Effusions as a Complication of Postoperative Hydatid Cyst Resection from the Liver: A Case Report

Abstract

Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic endemic disease in Iraq. It carries considerable complications eitherrelated to the disease itself or following its surgical removal. Pleural and pericardial effusion isa rare postoperative complication of hydatid cyst removal. A 65year-old Iraqi female patientcomplained of right-sided chest heaviness and palpitation one month following surgical removal of2 large hydatid cysts. There were no other associated symptoms. Physical examination revealedthe possibility of pleural and pericardial effusions (poor air entry and stony dullness of the rightposterior part of lower zone, difficulty to palpate the apex beat, increase heart dullness, and nopericardial rub). The diagnosis was confirmed by chest X-ray and echocardiogram. She receivedAlbendazole tablet 400 mg twice daily for 6 weeks with a good response. The Early presumptionof the disease in an endemic area with a good dose and appropriate course of Albendazole tabletstreatment can give very good results. To our best knowledge, this is the first case in the worldwho presented with hydatid cyst pleural and pericardial effusions and responded completely to theAlbendazole tablets.