Vol. 11, Issue 4 (2025)

Pathological fracture of the humerus due to hydatid disease: A rare osseous presentation and staged reconstructive management

Author(s):

Chirag Bisht, Nitingiri Goswami, Ankit Tomar and Tirth Patel

Abstract:

Hydatid disease of bone is a rare manifestation of Echinococcus granulosus infection, with humeral involvement being exceptionally uncommon. We present the case of a 24-year-old male who developed a pathological fracture of the right humerus following trivial trauma. The fracture was initially stabilized elsewhere, but the patient later presented with persistent pain and purulent discharge. Imaging revealed osteolytic changes, and histopathology confirmed a hydatid cyst. The patient underwent staged surgical management, including debridement, implant removal, cyst excision, reconstruction with a non-vascularised fibular graft, and definitive fixation with a long locking plate. Albendazole therapy was given throughout the course. This case highlights the importance of considering hydatid disease in the differential diagnosis of unexplained lytic lesions or pathological fractures, particularly in endemic areas, and the role of staged reconstruction in achieving successful outcomes.

Pages: 327-332  |  45 Views  21 Downloads

How to cite this article:
Chirag Bisht, Nitingiri Goswami, Ankit Tomar and Tirth Patel. Pathological fracture of the humerus due to hydatid disease: A rare osseous presentation and staged reconstructive management. Int. J. Orthop. Sci. 2025;11(4):327-332. DOI: 10.22271/ortho.2025.v11.i4e.3863