Primary hydatid cyst of the kidney presenting as a complex renal mass

Abstract

Hydatid disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus is a rare parasitic disease mainly involving the liver and lungs. Renal involvement is uncommon and accounts for 2–3% of all cases. However, primary involvement of the kidney with sparing of liver and lungs is extremely rare. We report a case of primary renal hydatid disease in a 45-year-old woman who presented with left flank pain and a well-defined multicystic mass in the mid-pole of the left kidney. As it can clinically mimic malignancy, a high index of suspicion should be kept in mind when encountering a cystic renal mass in people from endemic areas.