Introduction:
Hydatid disease is a parasitic infestation caused by the cystic stage of Echinococcus granulosus. Hydatid cysts are commonly located in the liver and lung. Pancreatic affection by hydatid cysts is very rare even in endemic areas.
Presentation of case:
Our case is a 34-year-old male patient referred to our centre with a pancreatic body cyst diagnosed by abdominal CT scan. The patient gave 3 months history of epigastric pain. He also gave history of travelling to Saudi Arabia and China. His enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay (ELIZA) test for echinococcal antigens was positive. Surgical exploration revealed a 7cm cyst in the body of the pancreas separable from the surroundings. Endocystectomy and deroofing of the cyst was done.
Discussion:
Due to its rarity and similarity with more common pancreatic cystic conditions, diagnosis of pancreatic hydatid cyst may be challenging. Abdmonial sonography and CT scan together with enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay (ELIZA) test for echinococcal antigens are helpful diagnostic tools. Therapeutic options include endocystectomy and deroofing, albendazol therapy with percutaneous drainage or laparoscopic excision of the cyst.
Conclusion:
Even in non-endemic areas, past history of travelling abroad in patients with pancreatic cystic lesions should raise the suspicion of hydatid disease as a possible diagnosis.