Hydatid Cyst of the Thyroid Gland

Hydatid cyst may be found in almost any part of the body, but most often in the liver and the lungs. Other organs affected occasionally include the brain, muscle, kidney, heart, pancreas, adrenal, and thyroid gland. Hydatidosis located in the thyroid is an infrequent finding, even in endemic regions. In the present study, 2 cases of hydatid cyst of the thyroid gland are reported. Preoperative investigations, including thyroid scanning, thyroid ultrasonography, and aspiration of the nodule, could not help in establishing the diagnosis. The histopathologic examination revealed hydatid cyst. During the differential diagnosis of the cystic thyroid lesions, hydatid disease of the thyroid gland should be considered in endemic areas. Surgical intervention is mandatory. Chemotherapy is necessary to avoid recurrence.