Multiple, Extensive Cardiac and Pulmonary Hydatid Cysts Managed by a Single-stage Surgical Removal: A Case Report

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic infection that is characterised clinically by the development of hydatid cysts in different organs, mainly the liver and lungs. Cardiac involvement is rare but can lead to serious and fatal complications. We report a rare challenging case of multiple, extensive cardiac and pulmonary Echinococcal cysts that were treated by successful single-stage surgical resection via median sternotomy without additional thoracic incisions. This article highlights the rare presentation of multiple, extensive cardiac and pulmonary Echinococcal cysts and how to overcome diagnostic challenges in the era of modern diagnostic imaging. Surgical removal remains the mainstay treatment, and a single-stage surgical approach is feasible in capable centres. Perioperative chemotherapy with Albendazole and the intraoperative use of scolicidal agents improved immediate surgical outcomes, although long-term effects could not be established in this case due to loss of follow-up.