Rim calcification in primary liver cell carcinoma mimicking hydatid disease.

The case described is of a primary liver cell carcinoma (PLCC), which was initially misdiagnosed as hepatic hydatid disease. The computed tomographic appearances of hepatic hydatid disease are often characteristic although not specific. When supported by the clinical findings, however, they will probably not be confused with other liver masses. In this case the presence of peripheral rim calcification, commonly seen in hydatid disease but which has not been previously noted in PLCC, lead to an erroneous diagnosis.