Epigastric cystic echinococcus involving stomach, liver, diaphragm, and spleen in an immigrant from Afghanistan.

BACKGROUND

Although cystic echinococcus (CE) is a common disorder worldwide, few cases are treated in the United States and other industrialized countries. Migration and tourism have caused an increase in the incidence of this parasitic infection in industrialized countries, and physicians must be familiar with its management.

METHODS

We report successful therapy of CE in an immigrant from Afghanistan.

RESULTS

The patient presented with a large epigastric mass that was initially misdiagnosed as gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor. The mass was removed, together with partial gastrectomy, splenectomy, and resection of the left lateral segments of the liver, and diagnosis of CE was made. The patient recovered from surgery, albendazole was started, and at five months follow up, he is recurrence free.

CONCLUSIONS

Echinococcus granulosus must be considered in immigrants and travelers presenting with a cystic mass.