JACC Case Rep. 2026 Feb 4:106857. doi: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2026.106857. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Cardiac hydatid cysts are a rare manifestation of echinococcosis that can impair ventricular function and pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are crucial to avoid life-threatening complications.
CASE SUMMARY: A 33-year-old man from Morocco presented with progressive dyspnea, atypical chest pain, and constitutional symptoms. Echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed a multiloculated cystic lesion with daughter vesicles in the left ventricle, consistent with a hydatid cyst. Surgical excision via left ventriculotomy and postoperative albendazole therapy led to full clinical recovery.
DISCUSSION: Isolated cardiac hydatidosis without extracardiac involvement is exceedingly rare and often presents with nonspecific symptoms. Multimodal imaging was key for diagnosis and surgical planning. Combined medical and surgical treatment with perioperative precautions ensured an excellent outcome.
TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: Cardiac hydatid cysts, although exceptional, should be suspected in patients from endemic regions presenting with intracardiac masses. Negative serologic results do not exclude the diagnosis. Echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging are key for diagnosis and surgical planning. Long-term follow-up is mandatory because of the risk of recurrence, even after complete resection.
PMID:41642159 | DOI:10.1016/j.jaccas.2026.106857