Cardiac Echinococcosis

Abstract Hydatid disease has a worldwide distribution and can involve any body organ, though the liver and lung are most involved. Cardiac hydatid cysts are a rare occurrence and can cause fatal complications. Here, we discuss one such case of a 60-year-old female who presented with cough and expectoration with difficulty in breathing. On investigations, chest X-ray, and two-dimensional echocardiography, the presence of a cystic mass was noted in bilateral lung fields extending into the left atrium, and hence, the diagnosis of hydatid cyst was made. During her course of illness, the patient developed acute respiratory distress syndrome which was managed intensively, but the patient eventually succumbed to her illness. Postmortem examination confirmed the existence of a ruptured hydatid cyst in the left atrium. Early detection and treatment could have led to a better outcome of disease. Thus this case report highlights the importance of considering Hydatid disease as a differential for patients presenting with unexplained cardio-pulmonary symptoms especially in agriculture dependent areas of hydatid endemic nations.