Mesenteric Cyst: A Case Report of a Healthy, Five-Year-Old Patient

Abstract

Mesenteric and omental cysts can be seen at any age, with one in three cases seen in patients under 15 years old. These cysts represent one in 20,000 pediatric admissions. Here we share the case of a five-year-old female patient at a health center in a developing country, with the purpose of contributing to documentation in the region.

Mesenteric Cyst: A Rare Entity

“…Rarely, the clinical presentation may be dramatic, with significant abdominal pain that is immediate and intense, showing signs of intestinal blockage, or mimicking the rupture of an aortic aneurysm [ 9 ]. The differential diagnosis of mesenteric cyst includes numerous other cysts like gastrointestinal duplication, paratubal, pancreatic, ovarian, adrenal, choledochal, splenic, renal, omental, hydatid, omphalomesenteric duct, urachal cyst, and other pathologies like hydronephrosis, and ascites [ 10 ], which can be distinguished with a complete radiological investigation, physical examination, and history collection. The fluid inside the cyst may have a variety of properties, including being hemorrhagic, serous, chylous, or polluted [ 7 ].…”

“…A cystic tumour with a thick wall and fluid content with a low CT number is seen on CT imaging [ 9 ]. A CT scan of the abdomen can assist in quantifying the mass's size more precisely, defining its extent, illustrating how it relates to other abdominal organs, identifying calcium deposits, and determining whether or not there is a retroperitoneal extension [ 10 ]. A comprehensive clinical examination, a complete medical history, all regular blood tests, and radiographic examinations are recommended in instances of suspected mesenteric cysts in order to make a preliminary diagnosis [ 7 ].…”

“…Most patients will require a laparoscopy to confirm the diagnosis because it is challenging to differentiate between these tumours on ultrasonography. As ovarian torsion or acute appendicitis are two conditions that may mimic cyst torsion and need immediate exploration, this can happen [ 10 ]. The following Figure 3 shows a rough outline of the management approach regarding the treatment of mesenteric cysts.…”

“…Some little cysts might potentially go unnoticed, growing larger and leading to a recurrence. The rate of recurrence is typically modest (0-15%) and significantly lower following total surgical excision [ 10 ]. For such patients, routine follow-ups with an abdomen ultrasound are indicated in order to detect the mesenteric cyst's recurrence early and lower the morbidity.…”