Mesenteric cysts - A series of six cases with a review of the literature

Background: Symptomatic mesenteric cysts account for only 1 in 100,000 acute adult and 1 in 20,000 acute paediatric admissions, Acute symptoms are related to compression of intra-abdominal organs or stretching of the mesentery by rapid expansion. An abdominal mass, mobile in transverse but not longitudinal plane, is often the only physical finding. Method: We outline the presentation, management and histological findings of 6 cases that presented to this hospital from 1987-1997, Results: There were 5 adults aged 32-79 yr and an 8 yr old boy. The child presented acutely with a painful tender abdominal mass, Of the adults, 1 presented acutely, 2 with chronic symptoms and 2 were incidental findings. Mesenteric cysts were successfully resected in all cases. Conclusion: Surgical intervention is recommended and resection of adjacent bowel may be necessary for complete excision, Successful minimal access surgery via the laparoscope has been reported and may become more widely applicable.