Mesenteric cyst--an unusual presentation

Abstract

Mesenteric and retroperitoneal cysts develop from ectopic lymphatic tissue. Most of them present as symptomless abdominal swellings or are found coincidentally during abdominal operations. One third of patients may present with acute abdominal pain, and few may present with chronic abdominal pain. However, mesenteric cyst presenting as inguinal hernia is extremely rare. Only four cases have been reported in the English-language literature. The present case is the fifth, and only the second from this subcontinent. The treatment of choice is complete surgical excision.