Guwahati; October 9, 2025: Peerless Hospital, one of Guwahati’s leading super-specialty healthcare institutions, successfully performed a life-saving surgery on a 28-year-old woman suffering from a ruptured pulmonary hydatid cyst complicated by anaphylactic shock — a rare and potentially fatal condition. The case was managed by Dr. Asif Iqbal Hussain (Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine), Dr. Jyoti Prasad Kalita (Consultant, CTVS Surgeon), and Dr. Vandana Sinha (Senior Consultant, Critical Care) at Peerless Hospital Guwahati
The patient arrived at the hospital on July 1, 2025, with fever, chills, breathing difficulty, and cough with expectoration of profuse liquid material for one day. On admission, she was in a state of shock with hypotension, tachycardia, and respiratory distress, though she maintained oxygen saturation with nasal oxygen support. Immediate ICU management was initiated with steroids, antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and mild inotropic support.
Investigations revealed raised total count and CRP levels, and an ultrasound of the abdomen showed hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver and spleen) with cystic mass lesions in the liver suggestive of large hydatid cysts. A CT scan of the thorax further revealed an 8.5 x 9 cm thick-walled cavitary lesion with air-fluid levels in the left posterior basal segment, along with mild pleural effusion and multiple cystic lesions in the liver.
The patient had a known history of multiple pulmonary and hepatic hydatid cysts and had been on long-term oral Albendazole therapy for two months. After initial stabilization, she underwent excision and marsupialisation of the ruptured hydatid cyst on July 3, 2025. Her post-operative recovery was uneventful, and she was discharged in stable condition on July 6, 2025, with oral Albendazole therapy for continued management.
Speaking on the success of this case, Dr. Gautam Das, CEO of Peerless Hospital Guwahati, said, “This case is a testament to the skill, dedication, and teamwork of our clinicians who work tirelessly to deliver the best possible care. At Peerless, our focus is on providing affordable, high-quality healthcare to the community — ensuring that patients receive world-class treatment close to home. Every successful recovery strengthens our commitment to making advanced medical care accessible to all.”
Discussing the case, Dr. Asif Iqbal Hussain explained, “Rupture of pulmonary hydatid cysts is a surgical emergency. Early stabilization and timely intervention are critical to saving the patient’s life. Surgery remains the gold standard for treatment, with the goal of removing the cyst while preserving lung function.”
He further emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, adding, “Pulmonary hydatid cysts continue to be seen in developing regions, and awareness among both clinicians and patients is vital for timely management.”
Hydatid cyst disease is a zoonotic parasitic illness caused by Echinococcus granulosus, most commonly affecting the liver and lungs. While uncomplicated cases are often detected through imaging, complications such as rupture can lead to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.
The case highlights Peerless Hospital Guwahati’s expertise in handling complex thoracic and critical care emergencies, reinforcing its commitment to providing world-class medical care in the region.