Sudden death related to an unrecognized solitary cardiac hydatid cyst: A case report and literature review

Echinococcosis, commonly referred to as hydatid disease, is a prevalent condition in regions where sheep and cattle farming flourishes, representing a significant public health challenge in endemic areas. As one of the most neglected tropical diseases worldwide, this zoonotic infection caused by Echinococcus tapeworms often forms cysts in the liver and lungs. Cardiac involvement, a rare condition, can be insidious with vague symptoms or even remain asymptomatic until acute complications or fatal outcomes arise. The occurrence of silent, solitary cardiac hydatid cysts is exceptionally uncommon. This case report presents a rare and potentially life-threatening situation in which a substantial hydatid cyst nestled within the right ventricle of a healthy adult's heart culminating swiftly in sudden death. Postmortem findings revealed an outward bulge in the right ventricle, housing a fluid-filled cystic cavity. Histological evaluation confirmed the presence of a hydatid cyst, and death was attributed to cardiac arrhythmias. This case highlights the ubiquitous potential of hydatid cysts to manifest at various bodily sites, accentuating their silent but life-threatening nature. Sudden death, a recurrent feature of this disease in endemic settings, emphasizes the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention to avoid fatal repercussions. Increased awareness of this infrequent presentation among healthcare providers, particularly in endemic regions, can help save lives by fostering early recognition and prompt management.