Hydatid cyst of the right ventricular wall. Diagnostical approach and therapy of a rare disease

Cardiac involvement is only found in less than 2% of all patients with echi nococcosis. The case of a 68-year old woman suffering from a hydatid cyst i n the wall of the right ventricle is reported. The clinical, radiological, serological, and histological findings are demonstrated. Immediate relief f rom the symptoms was accomplished by surgical resection of the cyst without the use of a cardio-pulmonary bypass. The problems of correct diagnosis an d therapy of this rare disease are discussed with reference to literature.