Peritoneal hydatid cysts: an unusual finding in western countries

Abstract

Background: Hydatidosis is a parasitic infection caused mainly by Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis. Peritoneal involvement is infrequent, even following rupture of liver cysts. We report a case of peritoneal hidatid cyst in a non-endemic area. Methods: A 67 year old female patient presented to our hospital with right abdominal pain and large palpable mass. She previously underwent a liver resection for hydatid cyst. Abdominal ultrasound, CT scan and MRI described a 15 cm peritoneal hydatid cyst. Serological tests for Echinococcus were positive. Results: The patient underwent surgical resection of the cyst and postoperative treatment with albendazole for 3 months was prescribed. Conclusion: Peritoneal hidatid cysts are rare in the western countries. However, since they are usually due to rupture of hepatic cyst into the peritoneal cavity or previous liver surgery, it is important to follow up high-risk patients.