Primary Peritoneal Hydatid Cyst Adjacent to the Hepatic Hilum Mimicking a Hepatic Hydatid Cyst: A Rare Diagnostic and Surgical Challenge

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus that predominantly involves the liver and lungs.Primary peritoneal hydatid cyst is an exceptionally rare presentation that mimics other intra-abdominal masses because of its nonspecific clinical features and unusual anatomical location.We report the case of a 32-year-old man with no significant medical history who presented with intermittent right upper quadrant and epigastric pain for one year.Abdominal computed tomography revealed a multiloculated cystic lesion adjacent to the hepatic hilum, initially suggesting an exophytic hepatic hydatid cyst.However, surgical exploration demonstrated that the lesion originated from the peritoneum, with no hepatic involvement.Because of its close relationship with the hepatic hilum and major vascular structures, conservative surgical treatment was performed, followed by postoperative albendazole therapy.The patient's recovery was uneventful.Primary peritoneal hydatid cysts require consideration in the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions adjacent to the liver, particularly in endemic regions.Preoperative imaging interpretation and tailored surgical planning are vital to achieve safe and effective management.