Primary Intramuscular Hydatid Cyst of the Thigh Mimicking a Soft Tissue Tumor: A Case Report

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Background: Primary intramuscular hydatid cyst of the thigh is an exceptionally rare manifestation of echinococcosis and may mimic a soft-tissue tumor, making diagnosis challenging. Case Presentation: A 66-year-old man presented with an eight-month history of a slowly enlarging, slightly painful mass of the left thigh. MRI revealed a well-defined multiloculated intramuscular cystic lesion containing multiple daughter cysts, suggestive of a hydatid cyst. No hepatic or pulmonary involvement was identified, and hydatid serology was negative. The patient underwent complete en bloc excision without cyst rupture. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. Postoperative albendazole was administered for three months. At six-month follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic, with no evidence of recurrence. Discussion: Although rare, primary intramuscular hydatid cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cystic soft-tissue masses, particularly in endemic areas. MRI is the imaging modality of choice, while complete surgical excision without cyst rupture, combined with adjuvant albendazole therapy, provides excellent outcomes and minimizes the risk of recurrence.