Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma

Mesenteric and omental lymphatic malformations in children: seven-year surgical experience from two centers in China

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical characteristics, surgical management and prognosis of mesenteric lymphatic malformations (ML) and omental lymphatic malformations (OL) in children.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 148 ML patients and 53 OL patients who underwent surgical treatment at two centers between January 2016 and December 2022. Details about the patients' clinical characteristics, cyst characteristics, preoperative complications, surgical methods, and prognosis were retrieved and compared.

RESULTS

No significant differences in sex ratio, prenatal diagnosis, or age of diagnosis were noted between ML and OL patients. Vomiting was more common in ML patients than in OL patients (46.6% vs. 22.6%, P = 0.002), but OL patients were more likely to be misdiagnosed (35.8% vs. 18.9%, P = 0.012). The size of the cysts in OL patients was significantly larger than that in ML patients (14.0 [4.0-30.0] vs. 10.0 [2.0-50.0] cm, P<0.001), and cysts with turbid fluid were more common in OL patients (38.0% vs. 20.6%, P<0.001). More OL patients than ML patients had preoperative hemorrhage or infection of cysts (41.5% vs. 31.8%, P<0.016). Cyst excision was performed in 137 (92.6%) ML patients and 51 (96.2%) OL patients, and the incidence of postoperative complications was lower (12.6% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.165) among OL patients. The main postoperative complications included adhesive ileus and recurrence of cysts. Additionally, more OL patients than ML patients were treated with laparoscopic surgery (69.8% vs. 39.2%, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There were differences in clinical characteristics, cyst characteristics and preoperative complications between ML and OL patients. Cyst excision was the most common surgical method that was used to treat both ML and OL patients, and laparoscopic surgery could be a feasible surgical approach for treating OL patients with a good prognosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered.

Adult Mesenteric Lymphangioma Resulting in Small Bowel Obstruction

A mesenteric cystic lymphangioma (MCL) is a rare condition that primarily manifests in children. This case report illustrates an unusual presentation of an MCL causing a small bowel obstruction with volvulus in an adult. We present a 31-year-old male who presented to our hospital with a small bowel obstruction. He underwent laparotomy, and a lymphatic mass acting as a lead point and causing small bowel volvulus was discovered intra-operatively. The patient underwent a small bowel with associated mass resection and primary anastomosis; he recovered well. The final pathology demonstrated an MCL. Despite the MCL being a rare entity in adults, it must be considered as the differential for various abdominal pathologies. Although the majority of these masses lack malignant potential, they should be resected, as they pose a risk of mechanical obstruction, torsion, and perforation. Prior descriptions include individual case reports of symptomatic lesions, proposed non-operative management, and follow-up imaging.

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in an adolescent male; a diagnostic dilemma: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Hemolymphangioma, a rare type of lymphangioma, is a benign hamartoma of the blood vessels and lymphatic system. Considered to be extremely rare among adults with infrequent occurrence in abdominal regions, lymphangioma involving mesentery accounts for <1 % of cases and only 0.05 % involve the GI tract. Due to the absence of typical clinical presentation, making a confirmatory preoperative diagnosis is challenging.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 18-year-old Bangladeshi man visited the hospital with the complaints of epigastric and umbilical pain for 15 days which was insidious in onset. Physical examination revealed an ill defined lump that was palpable on the right side of the abdomen. Ultrasonography showed multiloculated cystic mass having septation approximately 13 × 6 cm in size. An abdominal CT scan showed cystic lesion with septations measuring about 14.5 × 12.3 cm, compressing the bowel loops towards left, that was suggestive of mesenteric lymphangioma. The patient underwent partial surgical resection. The excised mass was sent for histopathology. Histopathology disclosed a benign tumor composed of proliferation of blood vessels of different sizes lined by endothelium in a fibromuscular stroma.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Mesenteric lymphangiomas are infrequent malformations and very few cases of mesenteric hemolymphangioma have been reported in adults. Histopathology is required for confirmatory diagnosis and immunohistochemistry is required to differentiate the tumor subtype. Surgical resection is deemed a standard treatment modality.

CONCLUSION

We report an extremely rare case of mesenteric hemolymphangioma to bring it to concern that even with the vague clinical presentations and involvement of age groups beyond the status quo, surgeons must be vigilant about abdominal MCL/hemolymphangioma and proceed accordingly.

Surgical Treatment of Mesenteric Lymphatic Malformations in Children: An Observational Cohort study

BACKGROUND

Few studies have analyzed the cyst characteristics and complications of mesenteric lymphatic malformations (ML). This study aimed to compare ML's cyst characteristics and preoperative complications at different locations and suggest a modified ML classification for patients requiring surgery.

METHODS

In total, 157 ML patients underwent surgery at Beijing Children's Hospital between January 2010 and December 2021. The cyst characteristics and preoperative complications were reviewed. The surgical methods for ML were analyzed according to the modified ML classification (Type I, n = 87, involving the intestinal wall; Type II, n = 45, located in the mesenteric boundaries; Type III, n = 16, involving the root of the mesentery; Type IV, n = 7, multicentric ML; Type V, n = 2, involving the upper rectum).

RESULTS

Overall, 111 (70.7%) ML were located at the intestinal mesentery and 44 (28.0%) at the mesocolon. Type I and type II ML mainly involved intestinal mesentery (64.9%) and mesocolon (56.8%), respectively (P < 0.001). Microcystic-type ML and ML with chylous fluid were only located in the intestinal mesentery. Intestinal volvulus was only found in patients with ML in the intestinal mesentery (P < 0.001), whereas ML in the mesocolon were more prone to hemorrhage (P = 0.002) and infection (P = 0.005). ML in the jejunal mesentery was an independent risk factor for intestinal volvulus (OR = 3.5, 95% CI 1.5-8.3, P = 0.003). The surgical methods significantly differed between Type I and type II ML (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

ML at different locations have different characteristics. For patients requiring surgery, the new ML classification can be used to select an appropriate surgical method.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Cystic lymphangioma presenting as an acute abdomen in an adult male with congenital aortic stenosis

Abdominal cystic lymphangioma rarely presents as an acute abdomen. In this article, we describe a young adult male with congenital aortic stenosis who initially presented with abdominal pain and raised inflammatory markers. The imaging in the form of a computed tomography scan was unfortunately inconclusive. In the evolution of this diagnostic dilemma, we describe the importance of early operative management as well as explore the link between cardiac and lymphatic malformations.

Childhood mesenteric cyst: A rare intra-abdominal entity with literature review

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Mesenteric cysts are uncommon intra-abdominal benign masses that appear in childhood with varying degrees of clinical manifestations, ranging from being asymptomatic to presenting as an acute abdomen. The diagnosis is made incidentally during the work-up for other abdominal pathologies such as acute appendicitis, bowel obstruction, etc. The treatment is mostly surgical and varies depending on the clinical type of the lesion.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 26-month-old child was referred to our teaching hospital's pediatric surgery department with an abdominal mass. The patient had previously complained of constipation and been treated symptomatically with laxatives. Ultrasonography reported ovarian cysts confirmed by computerized tomography scanning (as a misdiagnosis report of an ovarian cyst instead of a mesenteric cyst), done outside the hospital in a private diagnostic center.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

The patient was prepared for operation and during the surgical procedure, she was found to have a duplex cyst, which was mostly incorporated in the mesentery of the distal 1/3 of the transverse mesocolon. The cyst was enucleated through a lower midline laparotomy incision without bowel resection and anastomosis. The histopathological analysis of the specimen confirmed a mesenteric cyst.

CONCLUSION

Mesenteric cysts are rare lesions in children and should be considered when approaching any intra-abdominal mass. Except for the rare cases where intestinal resection and/or partial cyst excision are required, all mesenteric cysts can be excised while preserving intestinal integrity and vascular supply.

Management of severe symptomatic abdominal lymphatic malformation complicated by abscess formation, protein-losing gastroenteropathy, and bleeding

Background

The optimal strategy for the management of patients with severe symptomatic abdominal lymphatic malformation (ALM) complicated by abscess formation, protein-losing gastroenteropathy, and bleeding has not yet been established. The present study aimed to determine an appropriate management for patients with severe symptomatic ALM, particularly for those with abdominal complications.

Materials and methods

Eight infants and young adults who underwent emergency surgery for ALM in our department, between the years 1997 and 2020, were selected for the study. We also evaluated and compared the operative procedures, operative timing, and postoperative surgical outcomes.

Results

Emergency resection was performed in all patients with bleeding. Some patients presented with ALMs that invaded the adjacent organs. Resections that included the involved organs were necessary to achieve full resolution in three patients. After evaluating the diagnostic modalities for symptomatic ALM, we also performed elective surgery for patients without bleeding.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware of severe symptomatic ALM with or without bleeding, as well as its associated complications, in order to select the best surgical management plan.

Case Report: Endoscopic manifestations and clinical features of small intestinal lymphangioma-A report of two cases

Objective

The aims of this study were to analyze the clinical characteristics, auxiliary examinations, and treatment measures of small intestinal lymphangioma and to improve the clinical diagnostic ability of clinicians.

Methods

This paper reports two cases of small intestinal lymphangioma in the Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, and makes a comprehensive analysis.

Results

A 31-year-old woman went to the hospital with complaints of dizziness, fatigue, and anemia. A 52-year-old woman complained of upper abdominal pain and went to the hospital with abdominal pain awaiting investigation. Both patients were subjected to three major routine examinations, tumor complete set, CT, capsule endoscopy, and deep enteroscopy, and both of them underwent complete resection of the affected intestinal segment. Pathology showed that both patients had small intestinal lymphangioma.

Conclusions

The clinical manifestations of small intestinal lymphangioma lack specificity. Capsule endoscopy and deep enteroscopy are helpful for clinical diagnosis, and pathological examination is still the gold standard. Surgical treatment can achieve better results.

Trifoliate mesenteric lymphatic malformation

Mesenteric lymphatic malformations are rare lesions and its diagnosis can cause dilemma in spite of imaging studies. A laparotomy revealed this diagnosis in a five-year-old child who presented with abdominal pain.

Case report: A mesocolic lymphangioma in a 14-year-old child resected by laparoscopic surgery

Introduction

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

Case presentation

We report a case of right mesocolon giant cystic lymphangioma in a previously healthy 14-year-old boy who was successfully managed through a minimally invasive laparoscopic excision. The patient presented with 8 months of dull abdominal pain, sporadic, located on the peri-umbilicus, exacerbated for a month. An abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a large, multiseptated cystic mass on the right mesocolon. Right mesocolic excision using a laparoscope was performed on this patient. He was discharged on the fifth day without complications. Recurrence was not detected in three months of follow-up.

Conclusion

Cystic lymphangiomas in the mesocolon are rare benign neoplasms that pose diagnostic challenges. Complete resection is the optimal option for diagnostic confirmation and recurrence prevention. Laparoscopic surgery is feasible for children with mesocolic lymphangioma.

Gastric lymphangioma: a case report and review of literature

Background

Gastric lymphangioma is one of the highly rare benign tumors characterized by multilocular or unilocular lymphatic spaces. Herein, we report a case of lymphangioma in the gastric antrum.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old male patient who had been experiencing epigastric discomfort for a year was presented to our hospital. A gastric subepithelial lesion was diagnosed by upper endoscopy and was entirely excised via diatal subtotal gastrectomy. Endoscopic ultrasonography revealed an echoless homogenous echo pattern in the third wall layer. A lymphangioma was diagnosed by pathologic investigation of the resected specimen. The PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases were reviewed for literature in English while using the keywords of “gastric lymphangioma” or “lymphangioma of stomach” or “gastric lymphatic cyst” or “lymphatic cyst of stomach” and the results were discussed.

Conclusion

Gastric lymphangioma is a rarely occurring submucosal tumor that should be considered when diagnosing subepithelial lesions in the stomach.

Mesenteric cyst manifested as obesity, gastroesophageal reflux, urinary incontinence, and abdominal mass during pregnancy-Case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

The mesenteric cyst (MC) is a rare entity, a benign lesion that causes the growth of an abdominal mass and other clinical presentations. The presentation of MC during pregnancy is even less frequent.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 34-year-old Mexican woman presented with a mesenteric cyst treated with laparotomy aspiration during the 16th week of pregnancy; the pregnancy was resolved by cesarean section without problems. Nevertheless, 17 months later, the lesion recurred. New assessment and surgical treatment with complete excision are performed without evidence of further recurrence.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

This case is essential due to the low frequency of association between pregnancy and mesenteric cyst. Incomplete resection, aspiration, and marsupialization of the lesion carry a high risk of recurrence. Therefore, the opportune moment to perform a complete resection of the lesion and avoid complications should be evaluated during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

MC should be considered a differential diagnosis in cystic lesions during pregnancy. Imaging studies, complete surgical resection, histological evaluation, and follow-up are necessary for adequate treatment.

Benign focal liver lesions: The role of magnetic resonance imaging

Liver lesions are common findings in radiologists’ daily routine. They are a complex category of pathology that range from solitary benign lesions to primary liver cancer and liver metastases. Benign focal liver lesions can arise from different liver cell types: Epithelial (hepatocytes and biliary cells) and nonepithelial (mesenchymal cells). Liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a fundamental radiological method in these patients as it allows with its multiparametric approach optimal non-invasive tissue characterization. Furthermore, advanced liver MRI techniques such as diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatobiliary contrast agents have improved the detection of focal liver lesions and can be highly effective in differentiating pseudotumor from tumors, as well as benign from malignant lesions, and can also be used for differential diagnosis. Although histological examination can be useful in making a definitive diagnosis, MRI is an important modality in the diagnosis of liver lesions with a significant impact on patient care. This aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of benign liver lesions on MRI.

A Huge Mesenteric Lymphangioma Presenting as a Small Bowel Volvulus in a Paediatric Patient: A Case Report

Lymphangioma is a benign tumor characterized by proliferation of thin-walled lymphatic spaces. Lymphangioma of the small-bowel mesentery is rare, with an incidence of 1 : 250,000, representing less than 1% of all lymphangiomas. The predilection of the tumor is in the head and neck (70%), axillary (20%), and internal organs (10%). They are usually asymptomatic but can cause acute abdominal symptoms due to complications such as volvulus, bleeding, or lymphangioma rupture that require emergent surgery. Here, we report a case of mesenteric lymphangioma (ML) of a small bowel in a paediatric patient who presented with pain abdomen on and off which increased in severity and later had features of subacute intestinal obstruction. He underwent explorative laparotomy, and the mass was excised completely along with the part of small intestine. Pathological analysis of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of ML of the small intestine. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged after ten days of hospital stay. Though benign in nature, ML may cause acute abdominal symptoms that require emergent surgery. Therefore, it has to be kept in differential diagnosis of the acute abdominal condition.

Lymphangioma Cavernosum with a Rare Location

Lympangioma cavernosum in the abdominal cavity is a rare benign tumour. In most cases, such tumours are diagnosed in the oral cavity and neck. The aim of this paper is to present our clinical observations and review of existing literature to draw attention to this disease. A 25-year-old woman was admitted to our department for a symptomatic tumour in the lesser curvature of the stomach. The patient was first operated on as a three-year-old child because the tumour extended from the back wall of the stomach to the gastro-colonic ligament. The medical records showed that it was a benign tumour; however, no diagnosis was specified. No symptoms were observed for 22 years. Currently, the patient is admitted for epigastric pain. Abdominal computed tomography revealed an extensive mass located between the left segments of the liver and the lesser curvature of the stomach. The patient was operated on, and the tumour was completely removed. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful. Histopathological examination of the lymphangioma cavernosum was performed. Two months after the operation, the patient did not report any complaints.

Mesenteric Cyst with GI Symptoms: A Fluid Approach to Treatment-Case Report and Literature Review

Mesenteric cysts are defined as a heterogeneous group of intra-abdominal cystic lesions of the mesentery or omentum that may be found in any portion of the gastrointestinal tract from the duodenum to the rectum. The clinical condition is entirely asymptomatic in many patients, particularly with small cysts. The diagnosis is typically incidental and secondary to imaging performed for other purposes. In symptomatic patients, the clinical picture is characterized by nonspecific gastrointestinal signs and symptoms. Treatment may be surgical or via interventional radiology. We report the case of a 55-year-old female patient complaining of left-sided abdominal discomfort and constipation lasting three months. An abdominal ultrasound showed the presence of a 10 × 14 × 16 cm anechoic cystic mass filling the whole anterior and left abdominal cavity, confirmed by CT and MRI. The cyst, removed laparoscopically, was histologically a simple mesothelial cyst. We reviewed the international literature over the last 10 years of all cases with mesenteric cysts > 10 cm in evaluating gastrointestinal symptoms at diagnosis, histology, performed treatment, and outcome.

Rare Case of Cystic Lymphangioma Transforming Into Lymphangiosarcoma: A Case Report

Cystic lymphangioma (CL) is a rare benign tumor that mainly occurs in the neck and axilla and usually occurs in children, whereas lymphangiosarcoma (LAS) is a rare invasive tumor, usually secondary to chronic lymphedema caused by various causes, with a rare malignant transformation from CL. We presented the case of a 63-year-old woman who underwent four surgical excisions for multiple recurrence of CL in the right groin. The changes of imaging and pathological examination revealed the unusual process of its gradual malignant transformation into LAS. We followed up the patient for 16 years, and she eventually died of LAS complications.

Preoperative complications in children with mesenteric lymphatic malformations: Incidence, risk factors and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Preoperative complications of mesenteric lymphatic malformations (ML) in children are various and complex. We aim to analyze the incidences and risk factors of three major preoperative complications (hemorrhage of the cyst, infection of the cyst and intestinal volvulus) in ML patients, and explore their influence on the outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study enrolled ML patients undergoing surgery at Beijing Children's Hospital between June 2016 and June 2022 and classified them according to different preoperative complications, preoperative hemorrhage or infection, and preoperative intestinal volvulus. The groups were examined and compared according to sex, age at admission, presenting symptoms, laboratory examinations, imaging examinations, preoperative treatments, cyst characteristics, surgical details, perioperative clinical data, and follow-up. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent risk factors for preoperative hemorrhage or infection, and preoperative intestinal volvulus.

RESULTS

Of the 104 enrolled ML patients, 27 (26.0%) had preoperative hemorrhage or infection, and 22 (21.2%) had preoperative intestinal volvulus. Univariate analysis showed that patients with preoperative hemorrhage or infection had a higher rate of ML in the mesocolon (44.4 vs. 23.4%, p < 0.038) and larger cysts (10 vs. 8 cm, p = 0.042) than patients without preoperative hemorrhage or infection. Multivariable logistic regression analysis found that the location (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.1-8.6; p = 0.026) and size of the cyst (≥7.5 cm) (OR, 6.2; 95% CI, 1.6-23.4; p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for preoperative hemorrhage or infection. Preoperative intestinal volvulus was only found in ML at the intestinal mesentery. Further analysis showed that ML in the jejunal mesentery was an independent risk factor for preoperative intestinal volvulus (OR, 3.3; 95% CI, 1.1-10.0; p = 0.027). Patients with preoperative hemorrhage or infection spent more on hospitalization costs than patients without preoperative hemorrhage or infection (3,000 vs. 2,674 dollars, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

ML patients should be treated as soon as possible after diagnosis. The location and size of the cyst were independent risk factors for preoperative hemorrhage or infection. ML in the jejunal mesentery was an independent risk factor for preoperative intestinal volvulus.

Successful laparoscopic resection of gastric lymphangioma under the intraoperative guidance of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging: A case report

Gastric lymphangioma (GLA) is an extremely rare tumor without an established therapeutic strategy. Surgical resection is considered the mainstay of treatment, although there is a high risk of local recurrence if negative margins are not achieved. A 51-year-old man underwent routine abdominal ultrasonography, which incidentally detected a 20-mm tumor adjacent to the lesser curvature of the stomach. GLA was suspected based on its polycystic appearance. After a 16-month monitoring period, laparoscopic resection was performed because of tumor growth and involvement of the left gastric artery. Intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) navigation system revealed lymphatic drainage from the tumor, which we used to help determine the optimal excision line and minimize the loss of gastric volume. Pathological examination confirmed complete resection with negative margins and supported a diagnosis of lymphangioma. We performed laparoscopic radical resection of GLA under guidance from intraoperative ICG fluorescence imaging, which allowed us to maximize residual gastric volume.

Case report: Omental lymphangioma mimicking gastric cystic tumor

Omental lymphangioma is a rare pathology presented in the abdomen, and it can mimic several clinical conditions. Owing to its variable signs and symptoms, making a correct diagnosis by clinicians may be difficult. Surgical excision is the gold standard treatment. In this article, we report a case who presented with nonspecific abdominal complaints, and underwent surgery. Final pathologic diagnosis revealed omental cystic lymphangioma.

Chylous content might determine the optimal surgical approach for mesenteric lymphatic malformations in childhood

BACKGROUND

Mesenteric lymphatic malformations (LMs) represent rare congenital anomalies that can include chylous or nonchylous content. The pathologic mechanisms explaining this phenomenon are poorly understood and not yet described. Furthermore, the current management approach does not consider the contents of the mesenteric LMs. In the present study, we have defined the relationship between the lymphatic mesenteric cyst content and the histologic evidence of LMs within the bowel wall.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated all patients with mesenteric LMs treated surgically at our department from 1999 to 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 11 patients (6 girls and 5 boys) were included in our analysis. Seven patients had presented with LMs located in the jejunal mesentery, three in the ileocecal region, and only one in the mesocolon transversum and omentum. Of the 11 children, 7 had had LMs with nonchylous content and 4 had presented with chylous content LMs. Intestinal resection was performed in all 4 patients with chylous content LMs and 4 patients with nonchylous content LMs. Histopathologic evaluation of the surgical specimens determined that only the LMs with chylous content displayed malformed lymphatic channels throughout the bowel wall. The resected small bowel of four patients with nonchylous content showed no LM extension throughout the intestinal wall.

CONCLUSIONS

LMs with chylous content seem to develop from malformed lymphatic channels within the bowel wall. In such cases, segmental intestinal resection is mandatory. In contrast, mesenteric LMs with nonchylous content can potentially be treated without bowel resection if the blood supply can be preserved. This finding is, to the best of our knowledge, reported in the present study for the first time.

Mesenteric Cystic Lymphangioma in Pediatric Patient: A Rare Intra-Abdominal Tumor Management in Rural Country Case Report

Introduction: Mesenteric Cystic Lymphangioma (MCL) is a benign malformation of the lymphatic system. MCL seldomly occurs with a very rare incidence of around 1: 250,000. This neoplasm is more common in pediatric patients. Symptoms can appear with various clinical features ranging from asymptomatic abdominal mass to acute abdomen. Case description: Here we report a patient with MCL: that presented with bilious vomiting, abdominal pain, and abdominal mass. The patient underwent explorative laparotomy, mass excision, and  jejunal resection. Discussion: Although benign, MCL can cause other symptoms such as bleeding, torsion, or lymphangioma rupture. Therefore, MCL should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses in acute abdominal and abdominal mass cases in children. Conclusion: In conclusion, although sometimes asymptomatic and found incidentally, the MCL should be resected because it has the potential to grow and invade vital organs and cause life-threatening complications.

Cystic lymphangioma of the greater omentum treated by laparoscopic resection

We report a rare case of cystic lymphangioma of the greater omentum, which was treated by laparoscopic resection. A 61-year-old man was referred to our hospital for the treatment of a perigastric cystic lesion. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed neither a mucosal lesion nor a submucosal tumor in the stomach. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging showed a cystic lesion in the ventral side of the lower part of the stomach and no mass lesions in the liver. The patient underwent laparoscopic resection of the cystic lesion. The intraoperative observation confirmed that a well-defined cystic lesion was present wrapped in the greater omentum and located predominantly in the right side. Although the cystic lesion was located directly beside the right gastroepiploic artery and vein, excision of the cystic lesion along with the cuff of the omentum was performed without sacrificing the vessels. Macroscopic examination of the resected specimen showed an ovoid, cystic mass measuring 7.5 × 4.3 cm within the omentum. The pathological diagnosis was "cystic lymphangioma without malignant signs." Following surgery, the patient remained symptom-free without evidence of recurrence for 6 months. The laparoscopic approach, being minimally invasive, can be considered the most feasible approach for the resection of an abdominal cystic lymphangioma.

Pathological Discrepancy: Simple Mesenteric Cyst vs. Mesenteric Lymphangioma

Introduction

Both mesenteric cysts and cystic lymphangiomas are scarce and clinically and radiologically almost identical derivatives, but their histological structure is fundamentally different. Case Presentation. A 52-year-old woman was consulted by a surgeon for a derivative felt in her abdomen. The patient said she felt a growing derivative in the abdomen about a month ago. After consulting and testing, a sigmoid colon mesenteric cyst (13 cm × 11 cm × 10 cm) was found. Complete excision of the cyst within healthy tissues was performed through laparotomy. The surgery had no complications. The initial pathological answer was a simple mesothelial cyst (a rare histological finding). However, immunohistochemical tests were performed that showed that diagnosis was mesenteric cystic lymphangioma (ML). Cystic lymphangiomas that have a link to the mesentery have been described less than 200 times.

Conclusions

Final differential diagnosis between different cystic derivatives is possible only based on histopathological examinations. Mesenteric lymphangioma is most common at a very young age, but in rare cases, it also occurs in adults. All clinicians should increase their awareness of the disease.

A case of cystic lymphatic malformation mimicking acute appendicitis in an adult patient: a rare diagnostic pitfall

Abdominal cystic lymphatic malformations are rare pathological entities of uncertain aetiology that usually present in early childhood with indolent abdominal distention. We report the case of a 17-year-old man who presented to our hospital with acute right lower quadrant pain, nausea and anorexia. His blood tests revealed a raised white cell count and elevated inflammatory markers. Clinical examination revealed signs of localised right lower quadrant peritonism. A diagnosis of clinical appendicitis was made, and in keeping with local management protocols, the patient proceeded to theatre for a diagnostic laparoscopy without radiological investigations. Operative findings yielded a normal appendix and a large abdominal cystic malformation. This article highlights the need to keep a broad differential diagnosis when performing surgery on patients with clinically presumed appendicitis and the importance of radiological investigations in clinical decision-making, we also review abdominal cystic lymphatic malformations as a rare diagnostic pitfall.

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma: A case report

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Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas are rare benign lesions characterized by lymphatic vessels malformation with an unknown etiology.

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Although, mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas are rare but should be included in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain.

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Surgical resection of mesenteric lymphangiomas should be performed as fast as possible to avoid many serios complications.

Introduction and importance

Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas are rare benign lesions of the abdominal cavity characterized by lymphatic vessels malformation with an unknown etiology. Despite the silent clinical course of mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas, they are considered as clinically tricky lesions with an immense spectrum of presentations.

Case presentation

We present a case of abdominal mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in a 1-year 9-month-old female patient, who complained of fever and abdominal pain for 10 days duration. Laboratory investigations, abdominal X-ray, ultrasonography, computed tomography and histopathological examination were all used to establish the diagnosis.

Clinical discussion

A trial of true-cut biopsies performed by an interventional radiologist was not informative, so a multidisciplinary team decision was made to excise the mass. Intraoperative findings include multiloculated fused cystic lesion (8.0 × 5.0 × 4.0 cm) on the descending mesocolon. Histopathological examination revealed the diagnosis of a mesenteric cystic lymphangioma. The postoperative period was not complicated.

Conclusion

Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas are mostly asymptomatic in nature, yet predisposed to life threating events. Surgical excision is the modality of treatment characterized by low recurrence rate and a non-complicated postoperative period.

Painful Abdominal Lump in the Pediatric Age Group: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Any cystic lesion occurring in the mesentery which may or may not extend into the retroperitoneum is referred to as a mesenteric cyst; they have an infrequent incidence rate in the pediatric age group. Definitive etiology of the cystic lymphatic malformations is still not known but there are multiple hypotheses. A young male child presented with acute onset abdominal pain and palpable intra-abdominal mass and ultrasonography revealed presence of two lesions, one of them as an encysted turbid fluid collection in the right lumbar region and the other as a dilated, tortuous, intercalated structure. On CT, the first one was identified definitively as a mesenteric cyst while the other as a possible neoplastic mass in close proximity to the first one. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis as a cystic lymphatic malformation of the mesenteric cyst. The limited awareness of its existence along with its usually asymptomatic nature, are the likely reasons that it still remains an elusive diagnosis. Based on our case we discuss, the use of a multi-modality approach towards diagnosing cystic malformation disorders and how the use of MRI is under-utilised when it could prove decisive.

Abdominal cystic lymphangioma mimicking ovarian mass: A case report and literature review

Cystic lymphangiomas are uncommon benign lesions extremely rare in the adult population. Most cases are found in the neck and axillary regions; while <1% of patients present with cystic lymphangiomas in the mesentery, greater omentum and retroperitoneum. The present report describes a rare case of large omental lymphangioma mimicking ovarian mass. A 40-year-old G2P2 female patient presented without symptoms for routine gynecological examination. Transvaginal ultrasound examination revealed a cystic mass with a maximum diameter of 10 cm localized at the right parametrium space, suggestive of large cystic lesion of the right ovary. Further preoperative evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging indicated that the mass was either cystic lymphangioma or mesenteric cyst. Complete excision of the cyst without need for gastrectomy was performed via laparotomy under general anaesthesia. Histology revealed omental lymphangioma. Most abdominal lymphangiomas are initially asymptomatic. The role of synchronous imaging examinations, such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging, in diagnosis of these lesions is crucial. Full preoperative differential diagnosis evaluation in cases of large intraabdominal lesions is required in order to decide the appropriate surgical approach and management.

Giant cystic lymphangioma of the stomach: A case report

Introduction

Cystic lymphangioma is a benign tumor originating from the lymph vessels. It commonly occurs in childhood, in the head or neck regions. However, abdominal Cystic lymphangioma is extremely rare in adult patients and often asymptomatic. Considering abdominal space, it may attain huge sizes whilst causing minimal symptoms. Due to this insidious presentation, these tumors become massive and can be diagnosed late at the complication stage.

Presentation of case

This case report describes a rare and exceptional case of giant cystic lymphangioma of the stomach presented with a perforation in the abdominal cavity. The diagnosis was suspected following an abdominal CT scan, but could not confirm that the lesion was derived from the stomach. Therefore, an exploratory laparotomy found a multi-cystic mass occupying most of the abdominal space, adherent to the small gastric curvature and without delimitation line. This mass presents a small perforation responsible for an ascites of medium abundance. Then, the patient underwent a subtotal gastrectomy removing the entire cystic mass. Pathological analysis of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma of the stomach.

The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged after 6 days. At the 3-month follow-up, the patient was in good health.

Discussion

The cystic lymphangioma of the stomach is rare and exceptionally described in the literature. However, if this tumor is benign, it has the potential to grow, invade vital structures, and develop life-threatening complications.

Conclusion

We stress the importance of complete surgical excision to prevent cyst complications and to reduce the recurrence risk.

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Cystic lymphangiomas of the stomach are rare benign tumors originating from the lymph.

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Its clinical presentation is usually variable and often asymptomatic. However, it can cause mass effect and result in serious complications.

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The radical resection remains a sufficiently safe and effective treatment to avoid cyst complications and recurrence risk.

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Long-term follow-up is required after incomplete resection.

Imaging features, complications and differential diagnoses of abdominal cystic lymphangiomas

PURPOSE

The aim of the study is to describe the imaging features, complications and differential diagnoses of abdominal cystic lymphangiomas (ACLs).

RESULTS

ACLs are benign lymphatic malformations that mainly arise in the subperitoneal space and the retroperitoneum. The typical presentation of an ACL is a multilocular lesion with homogenous serous content, presenting a thin wall and septa, usually free from adjacent organ compression. Atypical findings, including fat or hemorrhagic content, septal calcifications and unilocular presentation, are not uncommon. Rarely, ACLs can be revealed by acute complications, such as infection, hemorrhage, intussusception, complications with a twisting mechanism (including torsion around its own pedicle) or spontaneous rupture, which can be diagnosed by imaging. Ultrasonography and CT are the most useful modalities in emergency situations. MRI performs best in the noninvasive characterization of cystic lesions. ACLs should be differentiated from normal anatomic structures (e.g., cisterna chyli) or pitfalls (e.g., ascites, extrapancreatic necrosis, lymphocele) that can simulate ACLs. Among other primary peritoneal cystic lesions, benign cystic mesothelioma can be difficult to differentiate from ACL. Some neoplastic peritoneal lesions may have cystic components or content that looks like fluid on imaging (such as mucinous or myxoid content) and be misdiagnosed as ACL. Nodular or thick enhancement of the wall or septa should then be considered worrisome features and should not suggest ACL. ACLs mostly require a simple follow-up. If treatment is necessary, percutaneous sclerotherapy is a safe and effective alternative to surgery.

CONCLUSION

Imaging, especially MRI, allows the noninvasive diagnosis of ACL and helps to exclude potential malignant differential diagnoses.

Solitary hepatic lymphangioma mimicking liver malignancy: A case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Hepatic lymphangioma, a malformation of the liver lymphatic system, is a rare benign neoplasm and usually coexists with other visceral lymphangiomas. Solitary hepatic lymphangioma is much more rarely seen and could cause a clinical misinterpretation as malignancy.

CASE SUMMARY

A 50-year-old woman with a liver mass of approximately 3.5 cm was initially diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma given the risk factors for liver cancer that she presented with, including Schistosome japonicum infection and jaundice, and also together with imaging results, which showed the mass enhanced quickly in the arterial phase and faded fast in the venous phase. The patient did not have the surgery first but received three rounds of transarterial chemoembolization because of her anxiety and fears for operation. Finally, the patient underwent laparoscopic liver segment 4b resection and cholecystectomy and was discharged from the hospital only 10 d after the operation. The pathological examination indicated the mass as hepatic lymphangioma. The patient has been followed up for 30 mo without recurrence. To raise the awareness of this misdiagnosed case and to better diagnose and treat this rare disease in future, we reviewed the published literature of solitary hepatic lymphangioma for its clinical symptoms, imaging presentation, operative techniques, histology features and prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Solitary hepatic lymphangioma mimicking malignancy makes diagnosis difficult. Complete surgical resection is the first choice to treat solitary hepatic lymphangioma.

Usefulness of 99mTc-ASC lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT in the evaluation of rare lymphatic disorders: Gorham-Stout disease, lymphangioma, and lymphangioleiomyomatosis

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Tc-antimony sulfide colloid (ASC) lymphoscintigraphy and single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) in the evaluation of rare lymphatic disorders, including Gorham--Stout disease (GSD), lymphangioma, and lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM).Nine patients suspected to have rare lymphatic disorders were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent Tc-ASC lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT to evaluate the lesions. The lymphoscintigraphy results were compared with the clinical and immunopathological findings.Tc-ASC lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT could provide lymphatic draining and anatomical information for rare lymphatic disorders. Among the 9 patients, 3 were diagnosed with GSD (1 female, 2 males; aged 15-34 years, range 27.0 ± 10.4 years), 3 with lymphangioma (1 female, 2 males; aged 17-42 years, range 32.0 ± 13.2 years), and 3 patients were diagnosed with LAM (3 females; aged 33-50 years, range 43.7 ± 9.3 years]. GSD is characterized by multiple bone destruction, including spine, ribs, ilium, pubis, ischium, and femur. The tracer uptake of involved bones and soft tissue around bone is increased, accompanied by chylothorax, chylopericardium, and chylous leakage in abdominal and pelvic cavity. Lymphangiomas present as multiple cystic lesions with increased tracer uptake in the peripancreatic, retroperitoneal, and iliac areas, and in the abdominopelvic cavity. LAM presents as multiple thin-walled cysts in the bilateral lungs and multiple retroperitoneal enlarged lymph nodes with increased tracer uptake.Tc-ASC lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT could comprehensively and specifically detect some rare lymphatic disorders, namely, GSD, lymphangioma, and LAM. This technique is useful for the evaluation of GSD, lymphangioma, and LAM.

Congenital intestinal atresia associated with a mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in a low birth weight neonate: A case report

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Reperfusion injury or disturbed blood flow may cause congenital intestinal atresia.

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Premature baby had congenital intestinal atresia/mesenteric cystic lymphangioma.

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Small bowel atresia and stenosis may be due to accidentally disturbed blood flow.

Introduction

Congenital intestinal atresia requires emergency surgery soon after birth. Lymphangioma, a benign tumor, is caused by an anomalous lymphatic system. We report a case of congenital intestinal atresia associated with a mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in a low birth weight neonate.

Presentation of case

At 21 weeks of pregnancy, ultrasonography revealed a cystic lesion in the fetal abdominal cavity. At 31 weeks, magnetic resonance imaging showed dilatation of the small intestine. This low birth weight (1752 g) male infant was born by vaginal delivery at 32 weeks 3 days’ gestation. Laparotomy on day 2 of life revealed jejunal atresia and a mesenteric cyst. The cyst was removed and intestinal anastomosis was performed. Histologically, the cyst proved to be a mesenteric lymphangioma.

Discussion

The most popular theories regarding the mechanism of congenital intestinal atresia include reperfusion injury and intestinal tract blood flow disturbance. In this fetus, intestinal torsion had occurred around the mesenteric cystic lymphangioma, which apparently disturbed the mesenteric blood flow and caused intestinal atresia.

Conclusion

There have been few reports of the combination of a mesenteric cystic lymphangioma and congenital intestinal atresia. This case supports the theory that small bowel atresia and stenosis are caused by accidental blood flow disturbance.

Laparoscopic resection of abdominal cystic lymphangioma derived from lesser omentum: Case report

RATIONALE

Cystic lymphangiomas are uncommon congenital malformations that originate from lymphatic channels. Lymphangiomas frequently appear in the head, neck, and axillary regions of children. Abdominal cystic lymphangiomas are extremely rare, having a reported incidence of 1 in 20,000 to 250,000.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 50-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital with a cough that had persisted for several weeks. Abdominal ultrasonography incidentally revealed a multilocular cystic lesion in the lesser curvature of the stomach.

DIAGNOSIS

Preoperative findings indicated that the lesion was cystic lymphangioma. However, the possibility of a pancreatic tumor could not be completely excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

Laparoscopy revealed a multilocular cyst in the lesser curvature of the stomach. The gastrocolic ligament was divided, and the body and tail of the pancreas was exposed in the omental bursa, showing that the cystic lesion was not derived from the pancreas but from the lesser omentum. Although it was located directly beside the left gastric artery, the cyst was enucleated and totally resected laparoscopically without sacrificing the artery.

OUTCOMES

The cystic lesion was histopathologically diagnosed as an abdominal cystic lymphangioma originating from the lesser omentum. The patient was discharged on the postoperative day 4 without complications.

LESSONS

Preoperative imaging cannot completely distinguish abdominal cystic lymphangiomas from other types of cystic tumors. Because cystic lymphangiomas have the potential to grow, invade vital structures, and develop life-threatening complications, laparoscopic assessment followed by total resection is considered a useful treatment strategy for peripancreatic cystic lesions.

Lymphangioma of the Small Intestine Case Report and Review of the Literature

Lymphangioma usually occurs in children and usually involves the skin. Mesenteric lymphangiomas are extremely rare in adults (1,2,3). Lymphangioma of the small-bowel mesentery is rare, representing less than 1% of all lymphangiomas (4).

We report a case of a 62-year-old female who presented with abdominal pain, discomfort, nausea and vomiting. Pre-operative tests including abdominal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed, but they could not accurately determine the nature of the tumour. Laparotomy was performed; the tumour was excised completely, and a large cystic tumour of the small bowel mesentery was found. Histopathological examination diagnosed the tumour as a cystic lymphangioma. Lymphangiomas are extremely rare, especially in the abdomen of adults, and are asymptomatic for the most part; they often present as acute abdominal conditions, causing life-threatening complications such as secondary infection, rupture with haemorrhage, and volvulus or intestinal obstruction when the tumour increases in size, requiring emergent surgery. Lymphangioma is often difficult to diagnose, and surgical resection is selected in many cases for both diagnosis and treatment.

Cystic lymphangioma in the peripheral jejunal mesentery in an adult and excision with laparoscopic-assisted surgery: a case report

Background

Lymphangiomas are uncommon congenital malformations that present mainly in the head, neck, and axillar regions in pediatric patients. Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas (MCLs), which occasionally present with substantial growth and the invasion of adjacent vital structures, are rarely reported in adults. We report a case of MCL in an adult who was treated with laparoscopic-assisted excision.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old Japanese man visited his family physician for prolonged periumbilical pain. Plain computed tomography (CT) showed a low-density mass in his left abdomen, and he was referred to our hospital 2 weeks later. His abdomen was flat and soft, and no mass was felt upon palpation. Routine laboratory data showed no abnormalities in the blood cell counts. The levels of tumor markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), and cancer antigen 125 (CA125), were within normal ranges. Contrast-enhanced CT was performed, and a low-density mass was observed with an irregular outline and poor contrast, as well as involvement of the peripheral mesenteric artery and partial compression of the adjacent jejunum without dilatation of the oral side of the bowel. The patient was diagnosed with lymphatic cysts and observed for 1 month without symptom exacerbation. Follow-up CT showed no increase in the size of the mass but showed apparent invasion of the jejunal wall without bowel obstruction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed intermediate intensity on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) and high intensity on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI). The coronal view on T2WI clearly showed an accumulation of cystic lesions. We performed tumor excision with partial resection of the jejunum in a laparoscopic-assisted manner. Pathological examination showed multicystic lesions with an attenuated endothelial lining, surrounding rich adipose tissue and scattered smooth muscle fibers; the patient was diagnosed with MCL.

Immunohistochemical assays supported this diagnosis.

Conclusions

This is rare case of MCL presenting in an adult who underwent successful laparoscopic-assisted resection. Mesenteric lymphangioma (ML) should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with intraabdominal cysts. Radical excision is optimal, even when the patient is asymptomatic. Laparoscopic-assisted tumor resection is a suitable surgical method for treating MLs located in the peripheral mesentery.