A large primary dumbbell hydatid cyst causing neural foraminal widening of the thoracic spine: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Spinal hydatid cyst is a rare, but serious condition. PRESENTATION OF THE CASE: Herein, we present a 17-year-old male patient with back pain radiating to the legs and progressive weakness in the lower limbs. CT and MRI showed a spinal-paraspinal hydatid cyst with a dumbbell appearance that caused neural foraminal widening and spinal cord compression. The case was explored via right T3-T4 hemilaminectomy, and the hydatid cyst was completely removed. DISCUSSION: The clinical presentation, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of this rare case of spinal hydatid disease are discussed, and all published cases of primary dumbbell hydatid cyst are reviewed. CONCLUSION: Even if serological test results are negative, hydatid cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the spine.