MUSCULAR HYDATIDOSIS: REPORT OF A RARE CASE IN THE QUADRICEPS IN ALGERIA

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Medical Oncology, 1st November 1954, University Hospital of Oran University of Oran 1, Ahmed Ben Bella, Faculty of Medicine, Oran, Algeria.

10.21608/jesp.2025.447389

Abstract

Hydatid cyst (HC), caused by Echinococcus granulosus, is a significant public health issue in 
livestock farming areas. While common in the liver and lungs, primary skeletal muscle in
volvement is rare (1-5%). This report details an exceptional case of primary muscular HC in the 
quadriceps. 
We present the case of a 14-year-old girl from a rural area with a several-week history of pain 
and swelling in her left thigh. Clinical examination revealed a firm, tender mass. Ultrasound 
showed a 60 x 38 mm intramuscular anechoic cystic lesion in the quadriceps (Gharbi Type I), 
suggestive of HC. Staging workup revealed no other hydatid localizations. Total pericystecto
my was performed without rupture, complemented by perioperative Albendazole (10-15 
mg/kg/day for 1 month pre- and 3 months post-surgery). Histopathological examination con
firmed a muscular hydatid cyst, showing a thick, and laminated, acellular membrane character
istic of the hydatid cuticle. The patient's 18-month postoperative follow-up was favorable, with 
no recurrence. 
Primary muscular HC of the quadriceps is an exceedingly rare diagnosis that should be consid
ered for unexplained soft tissue masses, especially in patients from endemic regions. Imaging, 
particularly ultrasound and MRI, is crucial for suspicion, with histopathology providing defini
tive confirmation. Complete surgical resection (pericystectomy) combined with perioperative 
Albendazole is the standard treatment for favorable outcomes. Prevention key remains in con
trolling hydatidosis, treatment of dogs mainly pets. 

Keywords