GIANT HYDATID CYSTS OF THE LEFT LUNG: CASE REPORT

INTRODUCTION: Hydatid disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus most commonly involves the lungs and liver. Large hydatid cysts measuring 10 centimeters or more is a special clinical entity called Giant hydatid cyst. Anaphylaxis is a serious complication of ruptured hydatid cyst. HISTORY: We present a case of ruptured hydatid cyst of the left lung without anaphylactic shock in a 50 year old lady with history of three years duration. The patient presented with complaints of breathlessness, wheezing and cough with expectoration. There was a past history of hospital admission with similar complaints three years ago. CT scan at present admission showed the classical sign of ruptured hydatid cyst (water lily sign) in the left lung. Pneumonectomy followed by histopathological examination revealed the presence of two hydatid cysts in the upper and lower lobes. Giant hydatid cyst in the lower lobe showed features of rupture. CONCLUSION: This case is unusual due to its presentation as multiple unilateral giant viable hydatid cysts. We also wish to highlight that lower lobe cyst had ruptured without the life threatening complication of anaphylactic shock.