[Primary heterotopic pleural hydatid cyst presenting as a pneumothorax].

INTRODUCTION

Hydatid cyst is a parasitic disease that is endemic in many countries. Pneumothorax may be a presentation of this disease that presents urgent problems of diagnosis and treatment.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 23-year-old woman, amenorrheic for 22 weeks, who presented with chest pain and dyspnoea. Chest x-ray revealed a right-sided tension pneumothorax. A check x-ray after drainage showed a homogeneous opacity of water density occupying the lower 2/3 of the right hemithorax. Thoracic ultrasound suggested an uncomplicated hydatid cyst at the right base. Surgical exploration revealed a hydatid cyst 14cm in diameter in the pleural space, and a cavity in the right lower lobe with two bronchial fistulae. Treatment consisted of removal of the cyst intact, closure of the bronchial fistulae and capitonnage of the residual cavity. The postoperative course was uncomplicated.

CONCLUSION

Primary heterotopic pleural hydatid cyst is an exceptional cause of pneumothorax that should considered in countries where hydatid disease is endemic. Treatment is surgical following drainage of the pneumothorax.