Case Report
Abstract
Full TextPDF Hydatidosis, also known as echinococcosis, is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, a parasite with a cosmopolitan distribution. Orbital involvement is exceedingly rare, with a reported incidence ranging from 0.3–1.0% among patients with echinococcosis. Due to its rarity, the condition is often underdiagnosed. The most common clinical manifestations include non-pulsatile, non-reducible proptosis, chemosis, eyelid edema, visual impairment, and restricted extraocular motility. Diagnostic imaging modalities such as ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a pivotal role in identifying orbital hydatidosis. CT typically reveals a well-defined, low-attenuation lesion, while MRI shows characteristic hypointensity on T1-weighted images and hyperintensity on T2-weighted images. Definitive diagnosis, however, relies on histopathological examination of the excised cyst. Surgical excision remains the treatment of choice for orbital hydatidosis. The primary surgical challenge is to avoid cyst rupture, which can result in dissemination of scolices and potentially life-threatening complications such as anaphylactic shock. Advances in surgical techniques and preoperative planning have improved outcomes. We report the case of a 5-year-old child with no significant medical history, who presented with progressive proptosis over three months. Clinical examination revealed grade III non-reducible, non-painful proptosis, accompanied by papillary edema. Fundoscopy demonstrated papillary hyperemia. CT imaging identified a well-defined, contrast-enhancing orbital mass measuring approximately 3 cm, without evidence of globe invasion. MRI confirmed the presence of a benign hydatid cyst, showing typical signal characteristics. The patient underwent successful complete surgical excision of the lesion without significant complications. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and meticulous surgical management in rare presentations of orbital hydatidosis.