Work

Primary subcutaneous hydatid cyst in the left flank: A case report and review of the literature

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Hydatidosis, a major parasitic disease in Mediterranean countries, primarily affects the liver and lungs, but in rare cases, it may also affect the subcutaneous tissue. Subtle symptoms often delay diagnosis. This report presents a rare case of left flank hydatid cyst. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a 40-year-old man who had been suffering from a painless mass in the left flank for three months, which was recently painful, and was diagnosed with a subcutaneous hydatid cyst. Imaging and serology tests were inconclusive. The intact cyst was surgically removed, and histology confirmed hydatid cysts. Postoperative albendazole therapy was given for three months and resulted in complete recovery. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Hydatid cysts caused by Echinococcus granulosus primarily affect the liver and lungs, with subcutaneous cases being rare. This is the first reported case of a primary subcutaneous hydatid cyst in the left flank. CONCLUSION: Hydatid disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue tumors, particularly in endemic areas. Outside of typical liver or lung involvement, diagnosis can be challenging and often delayed.

Source: International Journal of Surgery Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2025.111206

Authors: Atabak Sedigh-Namin, Sajad Ghadimpour, Elmira Mousavi, Sina Seifimansour, Alireza Bagheri Toularoud

Institution: Ardabil University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Parasitic infections in humans and animals

Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,090