Hydatid Cyst Masquerading as Chronic Sialadenitis-An Extremely Rare Locale of Zoonotic Disease Demystified by Cytology

Document Type : Case Report

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Lady Hardinge Medical college, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg, New Delhi, India.

2 Department of Otorhinolaryngology & Head-Neck Surgery, Lady Hardinge Medical college, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg, New Delhi, India.

10.22038/ijorl.2025.81795.3829

Abstract

Introduction:
Hydatid cyst disguised as chronic sialadenitis, represents a highly unusual clinical presentation. Only rarely do hydatid embryos escape the hepatic and pulmonary vasculature to enter other organ territories. This report highlights a tropical infection hoodwinking clinical suspicion due to an unexpected rare anatomical site of appearance. The present case masqueraded as a comparatively innocuous chronic sialadenitis. In addition, previous work has debated the use of cytology in diagnosing hydatid cyst on the grounds of triggering anaphylaxis.If done carefully, however, rewarding diagnostic returns can be seen, as seen herein.
Case Report:
We present an extremely rare case of a 35- year -old female presenting with swelling in the submandibular region with pain for two months. Ultrasonography revealed a hypoechoic lesion with fine needle aspiration showing the presence of numerous refractile hooklets suggesting hydatid disease. The same was confirmed both by serological evaluation and subsequent histopathological findings.
Conclusion:
This report highlights a unique presentation of hydatid cyst presenting as chronic sialadenitis, hitherto unreported in medical literature. Furthermore, it documents a safe diagnostic course employing cytology to diagnose atypical echinococcal infections.

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References

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Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
Volume 37, Issue 6
November and December 2025
Pages 341-344

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