Spontaneous Intraperitoneal Rupture of a Hepatic Hydatid Cyst

Abstract

Abstract Hydatid cysts, which are endemic to certain areas, typically are found in the liver. Spontaneous intraperitoneal rupture, which can be life threatening, is rare. This article presents a case of spontaneous rupture of a hydatid cyst in a 69-year-old woman who was admitted to the emergency department. The patient had no history of trauma. Abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography suggested rupture of a hydatid cyst. The patient underwent a partial cystectomy, and the cystic area was washed with hypertonic saline and the peritoneal cavity was washed with isotonic saline and drained. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with albendazole for 3 months. No additional pathology was observed at the 3-, 6-, and 9-month follow-ups. Although rare, a ruptured hydatid cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the acute abdomen in a patient residing in an endemic area.