Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of a large primary retroperitoneal hydatid cyst: report of a sporadic case

Hydatid cysts, a parasite caused by infestation with Echinococcosis granulose, are rarely found in isolation in the retroperitoneum. Diagnosis is based on clinical and paraclinical criteria, and the symptoms are often aspecific. In large, symptomatic forms, surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment. However, a multidisciplinary approach, including infectious diseases specialists, can improve results and reduce the risk of recurrence.

We report the case of a 38-year-old woman presenting with a large primary retroperitoneal hydatid cyst. After 13 years of asymptomatic evolution, she developed lumbar pain and a sensation of heaviness. The diagnosis was confirmed by a battery of biological and radiological tests. Due to the size of the cyst, open surgery was performed. Follow-up revealed no clinical complaints or recurrences.

Considered a rare condition, hydatid cyst requires special attention when evaluating lumbar masses or cystic masses, particularly in endemic areas. In addition to surgery, it is essential to take into account the risk of contamination of other sites during surgery. Collaboration with specialists in infectious diseases is therefore essential.