Primary hydatid cyst of the neck

Hydatid cyst in the head and neck is very rare even in countries where echinococcus infestation is endemic. We report the case of a 33-year-old female patient presenting with a hydatid cyst in the lateral cervical region. The diagnosis of hydatid cyst is made mainly with the help of imaging methods and review of the patient's history. Serologic tests can also be useful. The diagnostic use of fine-needle aspiration biopsy generally has not been advised because of the potential to precipitate acute anaphylaxis or to spread daughter cysts. Treatment is surgical. Postoperative albendazole therapy is suggested especially when there is preoperative contamination risk. (c) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.