Seronegative Bilateral Pulmonary Hydatid Cysts in a 15-Year-Old Boy From Pakistan: Report of a Rare Case

TL;DR

A 15-year-old boy in Pakistan had lung cysts caused by a tapeworm, diagnosed without typical blood tests and treated with surgery and medication.

Contribution

Highlights diagnostic challenges in seronegative pulmonary hydatid disease cases and emphasizes clinical awareness in endemic regions.

Findings

A 15-year-old boy presented with bilateral pulmonary hydatid cysts despite negative serology.

Histopathological confirmation and treatment with albendazole and surgery were effective.

The case emphasizes the need for clinical suspicion in endemic areas despite negative serological markers.

Abstract

Hydatid disease, attributed to the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus, poses a significant health threat in regions where it is endemic. Here, we present a case involving a 15-year-old boy from rural Pakistan who initially sought medical attention due to a persistent cough and hemoptysis. Despite initially testing negative for serological markers, imaging studies revealed well-defined cysts in both lungs. Confirmation of the diagnosis was achieved through histopathological examination. Management includes albendazole therapy and surgical excision of the cyst. Our case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with seronegative cases and underscores the importance of considering hydatid disease in endemic regions, irrespective of typical serological markers. This report enhances understanding regarding the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and management strategies for pulmonary hydatid cysts.

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