UNUSUAL PRESENTATION OF HYDATID CYST: A CASE REPORT

Hydatid cyst or Echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by tapeworm that occurs primarily in sheep grazing areas, but it is common worldwide because dog is a definitive host. It has serious impact on health and economy in the endemic countries. Hydatid disease is most frequently caused by E. granulosus and commonly affected organs are liver and lung. It is a chronic disease and cyst can be localized in different organs. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose it in the unusual region and non endemic areas. Incidence of hydatid cyst in head and neck region is extremely rare. This case report emphasizes that hydatid cyst can be kept as differential diagnosis of benign swelling in head and neck region.