Pediatric Hydatid Cyst of the Neck Mimicking a Cystic Tumor: A Report of a Rare Case

Cureus. 2023 Apr 9;15(4):e37328. doi: 10.7759/cureus.37328. eCollection 2023 Apr.

Abstract

Hydatidosis is a parasitic infection caused by the cestode Echinococcus granulosus usually occurring in the liver and lungs. Hydatid cyst of the neck is a rarely described location and more so on the back of the neck. We present a case of a six-year-old girl with a slowly evolving mass on the back of her neck. Medical investigations revealed a secondary asymptomatic liver cyst. MRI of the neck mass was consistent with a cystic lesion. Surgical removal of the neck cyst was performed. Pathological examination results confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid cyst. The patient was put on medical treatment with a complete recovery and uneventful follow-up.

Keywords: echinococcus granulosis; hydatid cyst; hydatidosis; neck; neck mass; surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports