A case of mesenteric cystic lymphangioma: Fat saturation and chemical shift MR imaging

Abstract

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma is an uncommon lesion that may be difficult to diagnose radiologically. In our case, a septate cystic mass showed fluid attenuation on a computed tomography scan. We were able to define the fat content within the cystic tumor by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. The presence of fat within an intra-abdominal cystic mass is suggestive of a dermoid cyst, cystic lymphangioma, or lymphocele. The pathologic diagnosis revealed a cystic lymphangioma, which originated from the mesentery. Although the MR imaging features of dermoid cysts and lymphangiomas are well known, the demonstration of fat content by chemical shift and fat saturation MRI has not yet been reported for a cystic lymphangioma.

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma in adult: a case series and review of the literature

“…In differentiating the mesenteric cyst from the lymphangioma, magnetic resonance imaging is suggestive because it allows a good differentiation of cystic and septal structures. Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas lack demonstrable fat content by chemical shift and fat saturation, as clearly seen in the magnetic resonance imaging of dermoid cyst [10]. …”

Mesenteric Lymphangioma in Adult: A Case Series with a Review of the Literature

“…In differentiating the mesenteric cyst from the lymphangioma, magnetic resonance imaging is suggestive because it allows a good differentiation of cystic and septal structures. Mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas lack demonstrable fat content by chemical shift and fat saturation, as clearly seen in the magnetic resonance imaging of dermoid cyst [33].…”

“…Other modalities for treatment for unresectable intraabdominal lymphangioma include sclerotherapy with doxycycline or alcohol [33,41]. In unresectable cases, radiotherapy has a definitive role in clinical management [42].…”

Lymphatic Malformations: A Rare Case of a Gigantic Mesenteric Lymphatic Malformation in a Paediatric Patient

“…Most mesenteric lymphatic malformations present asymptomatically and are found incidentally. Symptomatic patients with mesenteric lymphatic malformations present acutely with complications such as infection, bleeding, bowel obstruction, ascites or secondary to volvulus [3].…”