(BMJ)—A 25-yo woman presented w/ acute cough w/ streaky hemoptysis and expectoration of a large, white, salty, glistening, membrane-like structure. CXR: Bilateral cavitary masses w/ air fluid levels. What is the diagnosis?
Ruptured pulmonary hydatid cyst
Aspergilloma
Cysticercosis
Tuberculosis
Cystic teratoma
You are correct. Histopathological examination of the structure and positive serology confirmed the diagnosis of ruptured hydatid cyst. Salty sputum and expectoration of whitish, glistening membranes are unusual, yet characteristic, symptoms of ruptured pulmonary hydatid cyst. This pt improved w/ anthelmintic drugs and remained asymptomatic 18 mo later.