Concurrent biliary and omental hydatidosis in an ewe: An unusual presentation of cystic echinococcosis

Abstract

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by the metacestode stage of Echinococcus granulosus, typically localizes in the liver and lungs of intermediate hosts. This report documents an unusual case of concurrent biliary and omental hydatid cyst infection in an ewe. A four-year-old ewe presented with acute abdominal distension, respiratory distress, and poor general condition. Despite emergency treatment, the animal died. Postmortem examination revealed a 6 cm diameter hydatid cyst adherent to the biliary tract and three additional cysts (2-8 cm) within the lesser omentum. This case represents an atypical multilocular presentation of CE with simultaneous biliary and omental involvement. The findings emphasize the potential for unusual cyst localizations in intermediate hosts.