Hydatid Cyst of the Cerebellopontine Cistern: Report of Two Cases with Literature Review

Abstract Posterior fossa localization of a hydatid cyst is uncommon; in these cases, the cyst usually locates in the cerebellum. Localization within the subarachnoid spaces or the cerebrospinal fluid ventricular system is exceptional. In the present report, which appears to be the seventh in the literature, we describe two cases of a hydatid cyst in the cerebellopontine cistern. Magnetic resonance imaging findings revealed a nonneoplastic cystic lesion mimicking an arachnoid cyst. The hydatid nature of the cyst was unexpected preoperatively. In both cases, the cyst was successfully removed using the puncture, aspiration, irrigation, and resection technique via a retrosigmoid approach. Histopathological examination confirmed the cysts to be Echinococcus granulosus in nature. Hydatid cyst may be considered in the differential diagnosis of arachnoid cysts of the cerebellopontine cistern to determine which surgical procedure to perform and to avoid unexpected complications. Previous published cases were also discussed.