Atypical human cystic Echinococcosis with multiple cerebral cysts caused by Echinococcus canadensis

Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic infection and a recognized neglected disease primarily caused by species within the Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) complex. Its cerebral clinical presentation is uncommon and usually manifests as a solitary hydatid cyst. We report an atypical case of cystic echinococcosis with multiple cerebral cysts in a 16-year-old boy from Córdoba Province, Argentina. Microscopic examination of the cyst contents revealed the presence of protoscolices characteristic of Echinococcus spp., confirming the parasitic nature of the lesions. PCR and DNA sequencing identified the parasite as Echinococcus canadensis genotype G6, one of the five species within E. granulosus s.l. complex known for its zoonotic potential and prevalence in certain geographic regions. This case underscores the importance of considering hydatid disease in the differential diagnosis of intracranial cystic lesions, particularly in endemic areas. Moreover, the identification of E. canadensis G6 adds to the growing evidence of its significant role as an etiological agent of cystic echinococcosis in our region.