Primary Giant Splenic and Hepatic Echinococcal Cysts Treated by Laparoscopy

ABSTRACT

Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonosis caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. Liver and lungs are the most commonly affected organs whereas splenic infection is rare and its primary involvement occurs in less than 2% of cases. We report a case of primary giant splenic and hepatic hydatid cyst in a 28-year-old woman who was admitted for upper right quadrant pain. The abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography showed two cystic tumors with hydatid features in liver and spleen. Total splenectomy was performed for the splenic cyst and partial pericystectomy with drainage for the liver cyst using a laparoscopic approach. One drain was kept in place for two months due to a biliary leak of about 20 ml/day and removed afterward. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 7. Laparoscopic approach for patients with concomitant splenic and hepatic hydatidosis is a safe and effective option.