Isolated Splenic Hydatidosis

Abstract

A 27-year-old female presented with pain in the left hypochondrium for the past six months. An abdominal examination revealed mild splenomegaly. An abdominal ultrasonography showed two cystic lesions at the superior pole of the spleen. Contrast enhanced CT scan abdomen confirmed the USG findings, demonstrating splenomegaly with nonenhancing cystic lesions having internal septations and suspicious daughter cysts within it, strongly suggestive of hydatid cysts. On serological testing, the patient was positive for IgG Antibodies against Eccinococcus. Following Pneumococcal vaccination, splenectomy was performed taking precautions to prevent accidental rupture or spillage of contents into the peritoneum. The postoperative period was uneventful with the patient making a swift recovery. Histopathological examination revealed extensive necrosis within the cysts. In the midst of the necrotic material, hooklets were seen. These features were consistent with a diagnosis of an infected Hydatid cyst. It is of utmost importance that a correct preop diagnosis is made since all precautions must be taken to prevent dissemination or seeding of the surgical field. Death has been reported due to anaphylactic shock resulting from spillage during excision or biopsy. The most important factor in diagnosing splenic hydatid cyst is the awareness of its possibility.

Keywords

• hydatid cyst
• infected hydatid cyst
• nonspecific abdominal symptoms
• spleen
• zoonosis