Cardiac Localization of Hydatid Cyst: A Case Report

Abstract

Cystic Hydatid disease is a parasitic infection with a worldwide distribution. Even in endemic areas, including Morocco, cardiac involvement by hydatidosis is very rare but remains serious due to its life-threatening complications. We report a rare case involving a 21-year-old Moroccan man, residing in a rural area, with no previous medical history, who presented to the emergency department with pain in the right hypochondrium. CT-scan and transthoracic echocardiography revealed a cystic mass in the interventricular septum, with the radiological description suggesting the potential presence of hydatidosis. Additionally, two hepatic cystic lesions were concomitantly identified. The imaging-based diagnosis of the hydatid cysts was supported by positive hydatid serology using both techniques: ELISA and Western blot. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgery for resection of the cardiac cyst. Parasitological examination of the surgical samples confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid cyst.