Retroperitoneal hydatid cyst challenging the diagnosis: Case report with review of literature.

INTRODUCTION

Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic disease caused by a tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus. A retroperitoneal hydatid cyst is extremely rare and its diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in the early stage as it can mimic several regional pathologies like pancreatic pseudocyst, pancreatic neoplasm, and other retroperitoneal cystic lesions.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report a rare case of 39-year-old Nepalese male with a left retroperitoneal hydatid cyst who presented with pain and feeling of mass in the left flank region for 6 months. Diagnosis was made by abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging and management was done by partial cystectomy.

DISCUSSION

Retroperitoneal hydatid cysts can present with chronic pain, mass, and symptoms resulting from the mass effect which varies according to the different retroperitoneal locations. Diagnosis of the retroperitoneal cyst can be challenging clinically and radiologically in its early stages. Even in the late stage, ultrasonography may not suffice and additional imaging techniques such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging are required for the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

In endemic areas, hydatid cyst should be considered while dealing with a retroperitoneal swelling for early diagnosis and prevention of rupture. With a high level of clinical suspicion and radiological findings, retroperitoneal hydatid cyst can be diagnosed and surgery is the principal method of treatment.