Pericardial Hydatidosis in a Young Boy

Abstract

Persistent chest pain is an uncommon entity in adolescent population, with majority of cases having no discernible cardiac etiology. We report a young boy presenting with chest discomfort due to underlying large pericardial hydatid cyst. Initial diagnostic confirmation was based on classic echocardiographic features, including presence of sonographic water lily sign. Patient subsequently underwent successful surgical excision of cyst under cardiopulmonary bypass, along with perioperative antihelminthic and anti-inflammatory drug therapy. Patient continues to remain symptom free on follow-up, with no recurrence in cyst formation. This case highlights the high index of suspicion needed in diagnosing such atypical cardiac cysts, especially in patients from endemic zones.