Pelvic Hydatid Cyst: Three Cases with Suspected Adnexal Masses

Hydatid cysts are caused by Echinococcus granulosus. The usual organs in which the parasite lodges are theliver and lungs. One of the most peculiar locations for cyst formation is the ovary and most of these cases aresecondary. It has been reported that some cases are formed iatrogenically. In our practice, we encounteredthree cases of ovarian hydatid cysts with a common symptom of abdominal pain. Imaging studies showed thepresence of cystic lesions.Our first case was particularly interesting as the ultrasonographic characteristicswere consistent with malignancy; however, surgical intervention showed that she had a hydatid cyst. Of note,this appeared to be a primary cyst because no other lesion was detected at the time. Our second case was diagnosedwith infertility and under treatment prior to referral to our centre. Ultrasound (US) imaging showed thepresence of a large cyst. The patient underwent laparoscopic cystectomy and the parasitic lesion was removed;however, she was subsequently diagnosed with urticaria and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Shemade an uncomplicated recovery. Our third case was a pregnant woman with a previous diagnosis of a hydatidcyst. She underwent surgery for a suspected ruptured cyst, which was determined to be parasitic. Due tosimilarities in appearance, these cysts can be confused with other lesions. Careful management of these cystsin highly prevalent areas must be considered. Despite advanced technology, hydatid cysts present challengesfor both surgeons and radiologists.