Retroperitoneal and Genital Lymphangioma: Therapeutic Challenges in a Developing Country

Abstract

Background: Lymphangiomas occur most commonly in the head and neck region, while other sites are rarely affected. A combination of retroperitoneal and genital lymphangioma is very rare indeed. Though congenital, it may persist into adulthood due to missed diagnosis and inadequate or total lack of treatment. Materials and methods: A report of a 22-year-old male student who presented with recurrent multiloculated genital, thigh, groin and retroperitneal lymphangioma. He underwent surgical excision and adjuvant sclerotherapy using ethylene-diamine tetra acetic acid. Results and Conclusions: There was an initial recurrence after surgery which responded satisfactorily to sclerotherapy. Complete surgical excision of lymphangioma may be precluded by vital structures but sclerotherapy produces satisfactory resolution. The difficulties in management with limited facilities for
diagnosis and treatment are highlighted.

Keywords: Lymphangioma, Genital, Retroperitoneal, Therapeutic challenges, Surgical excision, Sclerotherapy

Libyan Medical Journal Vol. 4 (1) 2009: pp. 49-52