Recurrent Urinary Retention caused by Unsuspected Hydatid Cyst in Urinary Bladder

Abstract

Humans acquire Echinococcus infestation by ingesting eggs, typically developing childhood infections with symptoms emerging 5 to 20 years later. Cysts often form in the liver (55–60%), lungs (20–30%), and other organs including kidneys, heart, bones, muscles, brain, spleen, and rarely in atypical sites. Pelvic hydatid cysts especially urinary bladder wall cyst are rare and occur due to the rupture of liver cyst or hematogenous dissemination. Diagnosis is challenging due to cysts mimicking malignancies, relying on clinical, serological, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound showing distinct features like “hydatid sand” and the “water lily sign.” Treatment includes surgical resection and cysticidal agents, with albendazole effective in some non-surgical cases. We present a unique case of hydatid cyst in urinary bladder wall presenting with recurrent urinary retention.