ruptured lung hydatid cyst masquerading as a transudative parapneumonic effusion: a case report

Hydatid disease can virtually involve any organs, liver being the most common followed by lungs. pleural effusion as a complication of pulmonary hydatid cyst is exceptionally rare and its diagnosis and treatment pose significant challenges. we present an intriguing case managed in dr d y patil medical college and hospital in west india in june 2023 involving a 70-year-old female who presented with symptoms of right-sided chest pain and acute-onset dyspnoea. referred from a local hospital, a chest radiograph revealed the presence of right pleural effusion. subsequent radiological investigations including a contrast enhanced ct at our centre exposed two large, well-defined hypodense lesions with fluid density, encased by thick enhancing walls, along with right-sided pleural effusion and hence a diagnosis of lung abscess with right pleural effusion (right parapneumonic effusion) was established. despite ongoing care, clinical improvement eluded us. thoracocentesis yielded a surprising revelation – the pleural fluid was transudative with visible hooklets and protoscolices, indicating a ruptured pulmonary hydatid cyst. the patient began albendazole treatment and received a cvts consultation. they recommended a right lower lobe lobectomy, now scheduled for the near future.