Solitary subcutaneous gluteal hydatid cyst: a case report

A 50-year-old female presented with a swelling in the left gluteal region (upper outer region) since two years which was gradually increasing in size. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the swelling was done which was inconclusive. Incisional biopsy of the swelling done at some peripheral hospital revealed hydatid cyst. Based on histopathological examination, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging features along with positive serology diagnosis of solitary gluteal subcutaneous hydatid cyst was made and total cystectomy (cystopericystectomy) was done. Post-operatively patient was put on albendazole. Larval stage of Echinococcus is the cause of hydatid cyst. Four species of Echinococcus tapeworm can produce disease in humans viz E.granulosus and E.multilocularis cause cystic and alveolar hydatid disease respectively, while E.vogeli and E.oligarthus rarely infect humans. Hydatid cyst of subcutaneous tissue is extremely rare, and this case report highlights the rarest location of the hydatid cyst.