hydatid cyst of axilla masquerading as scrofuloderma

Abstract

Hydatid disease is an ancient endemic parasitic infestation caused by Echinococcus granulosus, which results in the formation of hydatid cysts in various parts of the body, the liver, and lungs being the most common sites. However, in 15% to 20% of the cases it may occur in unusual sites. We report a 25-year-old male patient who presented with clinical features similar to scrofuloderma in the axillary region but confirmed from histological examination to have hydatid cyst. This case highlights the uncommon site of hydatid cyst and unusual clinical and histopathological features along with the fact that it should be kept in differential diagnosis of nodules and sinuses in the axillary region. The treatment of choice is excision along with combination of albendazole and praziquantel.