A cyst in every corner: multiorgan hydatid disease affecting hepatic, pancreatic, splenic, pelvic, and pulmonary sites.

INTRODUCTION

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus, most commonly affecting the liver and lungs. Extra-hepatic and multi-organ involvement is uncommon and can present major diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report a rare case of disseminated hydatidosis with multiple visceral and pelvic localizations.

CASE PRESENTATION: A patient presented with abdominal pain and found to have multiple cystic lesions on imaging. Further evaluation revealed hepatic, pancreatic, splenic, pelvic, and pulmonary hydatid cysts. Surgical management was tailored according to the location of each cyst, followed by antiparasitic medical therapy.

DISCUSSION: This case highlights the diagnostic difficulty of disseminated hydatidosis, which may mimic other intra-abdominal pathologies such as cystic or disseminated neoplasia. The multiplicity and unusual locations, particularly the pelvis, underline the importance of comprehensive imaging. Multidisciplinary management combining surgery and medical therapy remains essential for favorable outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Multiple hydatid cysts involving abdominal and thoracic organs are rare and alarming but must be considered in endemic regions. Early recognition is crucial to avoid complications and guide appropriate treatment. This case emphasizes the need for vigilance when encountering atypical cystic lesions.