Chylo-lymphatic mesenteric cyst in a 7-year-old

Abstract

Mesenteric cysts are rare intra-abdominal masses that usually remain asymptomatic and present incidentally on radiological imaging. As the incidence is low, with paucity of data, careful pre-operative assessment and execution of surgical procedure often present a challenge to the treating clinician. A 7-year-old female child presented with gradual distention of abdomen and dull abdominal ache. On clinical examination, a huge mass measuring 1812 cm was detected in the lower abdomen. On radiological imaging, a diagnosis of mesenteric cyst was made. Intra-operative findings were consistent with mesenteric cyst, and complete surgical excision was carried out by laparotomy. The histopathology report revealed a chylo-lymphatic type of mesenteric cyst. Huge, benign abdominal masses in pediatric patient may represent mesenteric cysts, and the diagnosis can be confirmed by radiological imaging modalities such as abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Complete surgical removal of the cyst remains the treatment of choice, as the literature is against marsupialization or aspiration of cyst owing to a higher chance of infection and morbidity.