Retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma in adults
Chau, G.Y.; King, K.L.; Su, C.H.; Lui, W.Y.
International Surgery 78(3): 243-246
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-8868 PMID: 8161371 Document Number: 413624
Retroperitoneal lymphangioma is an unusual disease, more customarily reported in infants, only occasionally in adults. This paper reports four cases of histologically-confirmed retroperitoneal cystic lymphangiomas detected in adulthood. All four patients presented with palpable abdominal mass. The diagnostic imaging methods used included abdominal ultrasonogram and CT scan. Correct preoperative diagnosis was made in only one case, but four tumors were totally excised. Biochemical analysis of the lymphangioma content from three of the patients proved protein and fat rich. The CT attenuation numbers of both serous and chylous lymphangioma were similar and near that of water and so were not helpful in differential diagnosis with other cystic lesions with watery density content.