Lymphangioma of the colon: a case report and review of the Japanese literature

Abstract

Intraabdominal lymphangiomas are rare, although these lesions can occur in the mesentery, omentum, retroperitoneum, or gastrointestinal tract wall. Here we report a case of lymphangioma of the transverse colon and review the other cases reported in the Japanese literature. Our patient presented with lower abdominal pain and barium enema revealed a filling defect in the transverse colon. Colonoscopy disclosed a submucosal tumor, which changed shape with alteration the patient's position and showed the cushion sign. This lesion was covered with normal-looking mucosa. A correct diagnosis was made from these findings. Knowledge of these endoscopic features may help physicians to provide appropriate diagnosis and treatment of colonic lymphangioma.