Giant Hydatid Cyst of Lungs

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hydatid disease in humans is caused by zoonotic parasites, after accidental ingestion of food contaminated by ova of Echinococcus granulosus. Giant hydatid cyst of the lung is most commonly seen in children, but it is rare in human adults. The lung is the second most common organ affected by hydatid diseases after the liver in humans. History and radiological findings are usually helpful in diagnosing hydatid cysts, but serology can add to the diagnosis. A small pulmonary cyst may be asymptomatic; however, giant or ruptured cysts may develop fatal complications. The surgical intervention followed by pharmacological therapy is the treatment of choice for giant hydatid cysts of the lungs. Case description Here, we present a case of giant right-side hydatid cysts, presented with complaints of dyspnea, fever, and hemoptysis. The patient was successfully managed by right thoracotomy with an uneventful postoperative course. Conclusion: Giant hydatid lung cysts can present with any respiratory symptoms with fatal outcomes. Surgery followed by pharmacotherapy is the treatment of choice for giant pulmonary hydatid cysts.