Hydatid Disease of the Abdomen

Background: Patient presented with elevated IgE on bloodwork with months of weight loss. MRI shows a large cystic mass with multiple serpiginous linear hypointensities with characteristic appearance of hydatid disease of the abdomen and specifically involving the small bowel.

Key Points: Hydatid disease is caused by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus is endemic to many South American countries. The small intestine is an unusual site for a hydatid cyst but it is on the differential diagnosis for abdominal involvement. The mechanism for intestinal mesenteric hydatid cysts could be through systemic or lymphatic spread. Patients often are asymptomatic for many years and become symptomatic only after vague abdominal discomfort.

Case submitted by Dr. Saeed Rad to radRounds Radiology Network