What is a Morgagni (foramen of Morgagni) hydatid (cyst)?

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Last updated: April 24, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Hydatid of Morgagni is a benign condition that does not require treatment unless it undergoes torsion, in which case surgical excision may be necessary. The condition is characterized by a small, pedunculated cystic structure found at the upper pole of the testis or attached to the fimbriated end of the fallopian tube, and is a vestigial remnant of embryonic Müllerian ducts 1. Key features of Hydatid of Morgagni include:

  • Small size, typically measuring 2-10 mm in diameter
  • Contain clear serous fluid
  • Clinically insignificant in most cases
  • Can occasionally undergo torsion, leading to acute pain
  • Diagnosis is usually incidental during imaging studies or surgery for other conditions
  • Importance of recognizing these structures lies in distinguishing them from pathological conditions during examination. In contrast to other conditions such as echinococcosis, which requires surgical or endoscopic removal of the worm, and may involve treatment with albendazole and praziquantel 1, Hydatid of Morgagni is generally a benign condition that does not require medical treatment. However, it is essential to distinguish it from other conditions that may require more aggressive treatment, such as echinococcosis, which can have serious consequences if left untreated 1.

From the Research

Definition and Types of Hydatid of Morgagni

  • A hydatid of Morgagni is a benign, pedunculated, cystic structure arising from müllerian vestiges below the fallopian tube near the fimbria 2.
  • It can be associated with torsion, which is a rare occurrence, and may cause symptoms such as acute pain and vegetative symptoms 3.

Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis

  • Hydatids of Morgagni are usually of no clinical significance unless the pedicle becomes twisted and infarction occurs 2.
  • Torsion of a hydatid of Morgagni can cause symptoms such as sudden appearance of acute pain, located most frequently in the left side, accompanied by vegetative symptoms 3.
  • Diagnosis can be made by palpation of a painful nodule on the upper pole of the testicle, which corresponds to the twisted hydatid 3.

Treatment and Management

  • Treatment of hydatid of Morgagni with torsion involves ligation of the pedicle and excision of the infarcted cyst 2.
  • Early surgery is important to suppress symptomatology and prevent complications 3.
  • For Morgagni hernias, surgical approaches include thoracotomy, laparoscopy, and laparoscopic repair with mesh 4.

Complications and Associated Conditions

  • Hydatid of Morgagni can be associated with cardiac tamponade, as seen in a case of pericardial hydatid cyst presenting with cardiac tamponade 5.
  • Morgagni hernias can coexist with other cardiac surgical diseases, such as severe aortic valve stenosis, and require simultaneous repair 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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