Document Type : Case reports

Authors

• Maryam Tavakoli ¹
• Yalda Fallah Rastegar ¹
• Ali Feyzi Laein ¹
• Donya Farrokh ²

¹ Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran

² Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran

Abstract

Introduction: A hydatid cyst of the breast is an extremely rare condition caused by Echinococcus granulosus, even in endemic coun- tries, which accounts for 0.27% of all cases. Only a few reports have been published in the literature about breast hydatid cysts. Patients usually present with a palpable and painless lump in the breast. Clinically, it is difficult to differentiate breast hydatid cysts from more common breast lesions. However, imaging plays an important role, and often helps to distinguish this rare cystic disease of the breast from other breast masses. Case Presentation: Iran is an endemic area for Echinococcus granulosus, and we present six cases of primary breast hydatid cysts which were diagnosed over the course of 10 years in our institution. We aimed to present the mammographic and ultrasonographic
findings for these patients. Conclusions: Hydatid cysts should be considered in the diagnosis of cystic lesions of the breast, particularly in endemic areas

Keywords

• Breast
• Echinococcosis
• Hydatid cyst
• Ultrasonography