Atypical Pneumonia in a Young Adult: Diagnosing and Managing Pulmonary Hydatid Cyst

Cystic echinococcosis is extremely rare in the United States. Because some symptoms of a pulmonary hydatid cyst can closely resemble those of common pneumonia, it emphasizes the importance of thorough assessment of a patient’s travel history. Cystic echinococcosis is caused by the consumption of the eggs of the parasitic worm, Echinococcus granulosus, which can lead to hydatid cysts forming in various organs, including the lungs and liver. Our patient initially received treatment for bacterial pneumonia due to his symptoms of chest pain, coughing and shortness of breath. However, when symptoms persisted despite receiving treatment, a CT scan revealed a mass in his right lung. Lab cultures from collected fluid samples confirmed the presence of Echinococcus granulosus. The patient’s final diagnosis was atypical pneumonia secondary to hydatid cyst, taking into consideration his recent move from Afghanistan, where cystic echinococcosis is more prevalent. Treatment included aspiration of the cyst, a lobectomy, and the administration of the anti-parasitic medication albendazole. This case illustrates the importance of diagnostic imaging when thoroughly evaluating atypical pneumonia cases and the role the patient’s travel history may have in a successful diagnosis.