Surgical excision of a large retroperitoneal lymphangioma: A case report

BACKGROUND Lymphangiomas are rare benign tumors most commonly found in children under 2 years of age; adult cases are extremely rare. Retroperitoneal lymphangiomas represent less than 1% of all lymphangiomas. Because of their benign nature and possibility of spontaneous resolution, lymphangiomas are sometimes left untreated for long periods of time. However, if they grow large enough to compress surrounding structures, retroperitoneal lymphangiomas may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. We report a case of a rapidly growing retroperitoneal lymphangioma in an adult, treated with complete surgical excision. CASE SUMMARY A 60-year-old female who was diagnosed with an intra-abdominal cystic mass (11 cm x 9.5 cm) seven years ago presented to our hospital with symptoms of early satiety, nausea, and intermittent abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed interval enlargement to a 24 cm x 22 cm-sized huge left retroperitoneal mass, causing left hydronephrosis by external compression. Laparotomy was done via long midline incision. Due to severe adhesion between the aorta and the medial border of the mass, the cyst was intentionally opened for fluid aspiration and size reduction. After suture closure of the opening, we proceeded carefully with dissection. Aspiration showed light yellowish serous fluid. The mass was excised completely, and the pathology was consistent with cystic lymphangioma. The post-operative period was uneventful, and the patient was discharged without complications. Follow-up CT scan one month after surgery confirmed complete removal of the mass and decreased left hydronephrosis. CONCLUSION Excision of the huge retroperitoneal cystic mass resulted in relief of the patient's symptoms, originally caused by external compression, and also ruled out the possibility of malignancy.