A Challenging Diagnosis of Two Ruptured and Intact Pulmonary Echinococcal Cysts in a 54-Year-Old Woman: A Case Report

Abstract

Purpose: Echinococcosis is one of the most important parasitic zoonotic diseases around the world. Echinococcus granulosus is the most widespread species of the genus Echinococcus that can develop cysts in different parts of the body. We tried to present a case of pulmonary cystic echinococcosis. Methods: Here, we report a rare case of two ruptured and intact cysts in a 54-year-old woman with weakness, lethargy, body pain, stomachache, dizziness, and vision problems. Results: According to the patient’s manifestations and imaging findings, besides the COVID-19 pandemic, she was suspected of having COVID-19 and tuberculosis. However, when the aspirated sample was stained, hooklets of E. granulosus were observed. Surgical removal and chemotherapy were used for treatment. Conclusion: Treatment of pulmonary cystic echinococcosis is based on surgery, but, along with it, the chemotherapy makes a better prognosis.