Isolated primary hydatid disease of the breast masquerading a breast tumor: report of a case and review of the literature

Hydatid disease commonly affects liver and lungs. The rare breast involvement is usually a part of generalized hydatid disease. Primary breast hydatidosis is exceptionally rare even in endemic area. A case of isolated primary hydatid disease of the breast is reported in an elderly Indian women presenting with a painless breast lump. On clinical and imaging evaluation, the lump masqueraded a breast tumor. Fine needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsy of the mass were inconclusive for the tumor. Complete excision of the mass was performed, which upon histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid cyst. We reviewed the relevant literature with a brief discussion on management challenges. Hydatid cyst should always constitute a differential while evaluating a breast lump especially in endemic area.