Isolated giant renal hydatid cyst with a simple renal cyst appearance: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Isolated renal hydatid cysts of the kidney are a rare occurrence that account for about 2–3% of all hydatidoses. They can stay asymptomatic for years and could have a variable presentation on imaging techniques, which results in a challenging diagnostic process. Case presentation We report a 22-year-old Caucasian male with a large cyst on the upper pole of the left kidney that had no septations nor membrane calcifications on computed tomography, which led to mistakenly considering it a simple renal cyst. The true diagnosis was identified intraoperatively and proven postoperatively by pathology. Conclusions This case highlights the importance of keeping echinococcosis in mind when treating suspected renal cysts and tumors to avoid incorrect treatment and possible content spillage, anaphylaxis, and peritoneal dissemination.