Renal Lymphangiectasia in the Transplanted Kidney: Case Series and Literature Review

Background. Renal lymphangiectasia is a rare and poorly understood lymphatic disease associated with lymphatic dilation and leakage. To our knowledge, no cases have been described in the context of a transplanted kidney. Methods. We describe 2 cases of renal lymphangiectasia in transplanted kidneys, both from pediatric donors. Results. The cases of allograft lymphangiectasia are characterized by severe, symptomatic ascites refractory to attempts at medical and surgical management, and ultimately requiring allograft nephrectomy. Conclusions. While lymphatic complications, particularly lymphoceles, are not uncommon in renal transplantation, lymphangiectasia is a distinct condition which should be considered in renal transplant patients with ascites, after all other sources have been ruled out.