A Comprehensive Study of Pericardial Hydatid Cyst: Systematic Review and Meta-Data Presentation

Abstract Introduction Pericardial hydatid cysts constitute 7% of all cases of cardiac hydatidosis, yet their occurrence is often associated with several life-threatening complications. This study presents a systematic review of reported cases of pericardial hydatid cysts. Methods A systematic review of published studies on pericardial hydatid cysts was conducted. The included studies meeting the following criteria: (1) Confirmation of pericardium infection through diagnostic modalities, surgical findings, or histopathology; (2) Presentation of case details within the study; (3) Presence of cyst(s) originally located or adhered to the pericardium without rupture from adjacent cardiac structures or organs. Results In total, 106 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of cases (29.72%) were reported in Turkey, followed by India (18.24%). No gender predilection was observed, and patients' ages ranged from 5 to 80 years. The most common symptoms reported were chest pain (43%) and dyspnea (36%). Hydatid cysts were exclusively located in the pericardium in 56% of cases, while 44% involved multiple locations. Surgery was the preferred treatment choice (87.8%), with cystectomy (72.3%) being the primary technique for cyst removal. Only three cases (2%) experienced recurrences, with a significant correlation between recurrence and a history of hydatidosis. The mortality rate was 2.7%. Conclusion Pericardial hydatid disease is more prevalent in subtropical regions. The definitive treatment for pericardial hydatid cysts is primarily surgical, typically performed through a median sternotomy. A history of hydatidosis increases the likelihood of recurrence.