Retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration

• Published in: Clinical endoscopy Vol. 46; no. 5; pp. 595 - 597
• Main Authors: Black, Tyler, Guy, Cynthia D, Burbridge, Rebecca A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 01.09.2013; 대한소화기내시경학회
• Subjects: Case Report; 내과학; Endosonography; Biopsy, fine-needle; Lymphangioma
• ISSN: 2234-2400; 2234-2443
• DOI: 10.5946/ce.2013.46.5.595

Retroperitoneal cystic lymphangiomas are rare tumors of the lymphatic system. These tumors usually present in childhood and are often diagnosed incidentally with imaging procedures. Although benign, they can grow to large sizes and become symptomatic due to their compressive effects. They can cause diagnostic dilemmas with other retroperitoneal cystic tumors including those arising from the liver, kidney, and pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has become an invaluable tool in the assessment of cystic lesions in the region of the pancreas. This case describes a 66-year-old female who presented with 3 months of abdominal pain. Radiographic imaging was suggestive of a cystic lesion in the region of the pancreas. EUS was performed confirming a cystic lesion adjacent to the tail of the pancreas with subsequent fine needle aspiration fluid analysis consistent with a cystic lymphangioma.