Disseminated hepatic and peritoneal hydatidosis mimicking liver cirrhosis: A case report

Azañero-Haro J.; Ángeles A.; Aponte V.; Cachay Q. · Revista Colombiana de Gastroenterologia (2026) · DOI: 10.22516/25007440.1544

Resumen

Introduction: Hydatidosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, is a zoonosis endemic to rural areas of Peru that rarely presents as a condition mimicking portal hypertension. Case presentation: This is the case of a 47-year-old woman from Cerro de Pasco with a four-year history of progressive abdominal distension and fatigue, initially diagnosed as liver cirrhosis due to chronic ascites. Computed tomography revealed multiple hepatic cysts and massive peritoneal collections; Western Blot serology confirmed the diagnosis of disseminated hydatidosis. The team performed an exploratory laparotomy and drained more than 10 liters of hydatid content, followed by a laparoscopic reintervention because of infectious complications. After continuous treatment with albendazole, the patient showed a favorable clinical course at nine months. Conclusions: Clinicians should consider disseminated hydatidosis in the differential diagnosis of chronic ascites in patients from high-Andean regions. Successful treatment depends on comprehensive medical-surgical management and long-term follow-up.

Instituciones: Universidad Ricardo Palma; Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal