Pulmonary Cystic Echinococcosis in Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound - A Case Report

J Ultrason. 2023 Feb 28;23(92):39-42. doi: 10.15557/JoU.2023.0008. eCollection 2023 Jan.

Abstract

Aim of the study: Pulmonary cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic infection transmitted by dogs and occurring in livestock-raising areas. It is included among the neglected tropical diseases, according to the World Health Organization. Imaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of this disease. While cross-sectional imaging modalities such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are preferred, lung ultrasound may be another feasible technique.

Case description: We report a case of pulmonary cystic echinococcosis in a 26-year-old woman who was examined by contrast-enhanced ultrasound, which showed marked annular enhancement around the hydatid cyst, mimicking a superinfected cyst.

Conclusions: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination in pulmonary cystic echinococcosis should be studied in a larger population to determine the value of additional contrast administration. In the present case report, no superinfected echinococcal cyst was seen despite marked annular contrast enhancement.

Keywords: contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS); cystic echinococcosis; hydatid disease; lung ultrasound.