Diagnosis of suspected cardiac echinococcosis with negative serologies: Role of transthoracic, transesophageal, and contrast echocardiography

The early recognition and treatment of hydatid disease of the heart is important as it can result in potentially lethal complications. We present the clinical and echocardiographic features of a 71 year old Afghanistani man who presented with left-sided chest pain. Transthoracic (TTE), transesophageal (TEE), and contrast echo demonstrated a calcified cystic structure within the distal anterior septum consistent with an echinococcal cyst, despite negative serologies. Treatment strategies for this patient are discussed.