Left ventricular hydatid cyst mimicking acute coronary syndrome

Abstract

Hydatid disease is caused by the larvae of Echinococcus granulosus. Domestic dogs and cats are the primary carriers of echinococcal organisms. In some particular regions of the world, this parasitic infection is still endemic. Despite the fact that hydatid disease is most frequently located in the liver (50%-70% of cases) and the lungs (20%-30% of cases), it can occur in any organ or tissue. However, intracardiac localization of hydatid cyst is very rare and it is found in less than 2% of the cases. Cardiac involvement can be caused by systemic or pulmonary circulation or direct spread from adjacent structures. After the cardiac hydatid cyst remained asymptomatic for many years, the cyst opens into the pericardium, causes cardiac tamponade, and mimics acute coronary syndrome, or it may get into the circulation and cause anaphylactic shock, which happens rarely. Because clinical signs and symptoms of cardiac hydatid cyst are not specific and varied, it may be difficult to diagnose this disease. It is critical to diagnose cardiac involvement early and perform prompt surgical intervention. Imaging findings of a patient who had a left ventricular wall cardiac hydatid disease are presented here. Keywords: Cardiac, Hydatid cyst, CT, MRI, Interventional radiology