Journal Published Online: 01 September 2002
Volume 47, Issue 5

Sudden Death Due to an Unrecognized Cardiac Hydatid Cyst

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Echinococcosis is an endemic disease, most common in sheep-raising communities, usually caused by the larval or cyst stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. Isolated cardiac hydatid cyst is uncommon at any age, occurs through the coronary circulation, and accounts for less than 3% of all hydatid disease.

We describe a case of an 18-year-old female, who died suddenly. The post-mortem examination revealed an isolated cyst in the left ventricle of the heart with intact wall. The cytologic examination of the cyst fluid demonstrated the presence of the characteristic scolices and hooklets and es-tablished the diagnosis of cardiac hydatid cyst.

The present case is of special interest because of the rare primary localization and the onset of sudden death in a young person as the initial manifestation of the disease.

Author Information

Malamou-Mitsi, V
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Pappa, L
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Vougiouklakis, T
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Peschos, D
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Kazakos, N
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Grekas, G
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Sideris, D
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Agnantis, NJ
Medical School, University of Ioannina, Greece
Pages: 3
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS15520J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS15520J