Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in an adult: An unusual case report

Abstract

Introduction: Cystic lymphangioma is a benign malformation tumor of the lymphatic system. Its location is variable, and mesenteric localization remains extremely rare.

Case presentation: We describe a rare case of cystic lymphangioma of the mesentery in a 26 years old woman. The diagnosis was suspected following an abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), showing a large polylobulated cyst in contact with the stomach, the tail of the pancreas, the spleen, and the antero-external cortex of the left kidney. The patient underwent laparoscopic surgery with a pericystectomy. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma of the mesentery. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful. After a Follow up of one year after surgery, there was no evidence of recurrence.

Clinical discussion: Cystic lymphangioma of the mesentery is a benign malformation tumor of the lymphatic system. Its clinical aspects are very polymorphic; the diagnosis is evoked by radiological imaging but requires pathological confirmation. Surgery is the gold standard in the management of this pathology.

Conclusion: We highlight the importance of radical surgical resection to avoid Cystic lymphangioma complications and minimize the recurrence risk.

Keywords: Case report; Cystic lymphangioma; Mesenteric tumor; Surgical excision.

Fig. 1

Abdominal CT scan showing a cystic mass in contact with the stomach, the tail of the pancreas, the spleen, and the Antero external cortex of the left kidney.

Fig. 2

Abdominal MRI showing an intraperitoneal cystic mass located at the level of the left hypochondrium presenting hypointensity in the T1 weighted and hyperintensity at T2 weighted with some fine partitions.

Fig. 3

Image showing the resected mass.

Fig. 4

The microphotographic analysis showing cystic lymphatic cavities of variable size, lined with endothelial cells resting on a fibrous wall with an inflammatory lymphocytic infiltrate creating lymphoid nodules; Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain x400.