Published online Sep 27, 2026. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.121000
Revised: March 26, 2026
Accepted: April 20, 2026
Published online: September 27, 2026
Processing time: 186 Days and 21 Hours
Primary extrahepatic-extrapulmonary hydatid cysts are rare and may present significant diagnostic challenges due to their atypical localization and similarity to benign or malignant cystic lesions.
To evaluate the clinical characteristics, surgical management, and recurrence outcomes of patients with primary extrahepatic-extrapulmonary hydatid cysts.
A retrospective analysis was conducted on a total of 179 cases of hydatid cysts operated on between January 2015 and January 2026. Twenty primary cases without liver and lung involvement and with pathological confirmation were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiological data, as well as surgical methods, complications, and recurrence rates, were evaluated. The relationship between surgical technique and recurrence was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test.
Twelve of the patients (60%) were women and eight (40%) were men. The median age was 39.5 (18-75). The most frequent localization was intramuscular areas (25%). Total cyst excision was performed in 50% of cases, organ resection + total excision in 35%, and partial excision in 15%. The median follow-up period was 36.5 months (6-60). Recurrence was observed in two patients (10%). The recur
Primary extrahepatic-extrapulmonary hydatid cyst is a rare but clinically significant condition. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis in endemic regions. Whenever feasible, total excision should be preferred; in cases where partial excision is performed, the risk of recurrence should be considered.
Core Tip: Primary extrahepatic-extrapulmonary hydatid cysts are rare and may present significant diagnostic challenges because they can mimic benign or malignant cystic lesions. In this retrospective cohort study of 20 primary cases, we evaluated clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes. Our findings demonstrate that recurrence occurred only in patients who underwent partial cyst excision. These results highlight the importance of complete surgical excision whenever feasible to minimize recurrence risk. Surgeons should consider hydatid cyst in the differential diagnosis of atypical cystic lesions in endemic regions.