Multiple cerebral hydatid cysts secondary to embolization from intracardiac hydatidosis

Abstract

We report a rare case of multiple intracranial hydatid cysts secondary to the embolism of cardiac echinococcosis in a 17-year-old girl. The patient presented with stroke and cardiac hydatidosis was found by echocardiography and was treated surgically. Chemotherapy by albendazole was not effective and after 2 years, 5 cerebral cysts in both hemispheres appeared. Surgical removal of cysts was successful and no recurrence was observed over a 2-year follow-up period. Growth rate of cysts and serial computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging findings are discussed, too.