Hydatid Cyst Causing Femoral Artery Embolism arid Ischemic Syndrome of a Lower Limb

Abstract

An intracardiac hydatid cyst is a rare but potentially very serious complication of hydatid disease as the rupture of the cyst may lead to embolisation of the femoral artery. We report the case of a 29-year-old man who was admitted with the diagnosis of arterial occlusion of the left leg. During surgery, a large hydatid cyst causing femoral artery occlusion was found and excised. This case emphasizes that, in endemic countries, primary vascular echinococcosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of arterial occlusion.