Idiopathic lymphatic mesenteric cyst of the proximal jejunum: A case report of an unusual clinical presentation

Introduction: Mesenteric cysts are rare lesions of the abdominal cavity or retroperitoneum. The exact etiopathogenesis is still undefined. Clinical manifestation can vary from asymptomatic patients to symptoms of an acute abdomen, making diagnosis very challenging.

Case presentation: We present a case of a 47-year-old male with new ongoing polyuria and nocturia as well as episodes of slight abdominal pain. An abdominal ultrasound showed ascites and the computer tomography (CT) scan raised suspicion of an internal hernia. We performed a diagnostic laparoscopy and open resection of a cystic lesion of the small bowel mesentery. The histological examination revealed a lymphatic mesenteric cyst.

Discussion: Mesenteric cysts represent rare intra-abdominal tumors that physicians should consider as a differential diagnosis in patients with abdominal pain and an intra-abdominal mass.

Conclusion: Surgery should be advised to prevent the development of complications and to confirm the histopathological diagnosis.