# Pulmonary Embolism Originating From a Hepatic Hydatid Cyst: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A rare case of pulmonary embolism caused by a liver hydatid cyst is reported, highlighting the importance of considering this diagnosis in endemic regions.

## Contribution

This case report documents a rare complication of hydatid disease causing massive pulmonary embolism.

## Key findings

- A 32-year-old woman presented with acute respiratory failure due to hydatid pulmonary embolism.
- CT angiography revealed a hydatid cyst fistulizing into the inferior vena cava.
- Positive serologic testing confirmed echinococcosis as the cause of the embolism.

## Abstract

Spontaneous pulmonary embolism due to hydatid disease is an extremely rare complication. Here, we present a patient case involving multiple cystic hydatid lesions within the lung parenchyma and liver. A 32-year-old woman was admitted with acute respiratory failure and chest pain. Chest radiographs revealed a solitary oval opacity in the upper zone of the right lung. CT angiography was performed, showing a concomitant lung and liver hydatid cyst that had fistulized into the inferior vena cava, leading to massive bilateral hydatid pulmonary embolism, echinococcosis serologic testing was positive, pulmonary embolism was attributed to the hydatid cyst. Pulmonary hydatid embolism is a rare but serious complication of liver hydatid cysts. This diagnosis should be considered, particularly in endemic areas of this zoonotic disease.