Giant chylous mesenteric cyst in a young adult: A case report.

INTRODUCTION

Mesenteric cysts are rare benign intra-abdominal lesions located in the mesentery of the gastrointestinal tract and may extend from the base of the mesentery into the retro-peritoneum. Majority of mesenteric cysts occurred in the small bowel mesentery.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 35-year-old male presented with a one year history of nonspecific abdominal pain and distension. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a large cystic mass. During surgical exploration, a giant mesenteric cyst was identified. Complete surgical enucleation of the cyst was successfully performed without requiring bowel resection.

DISCUSSION: A mesenteric cyst is any cystic lesion found within the mesentery. While its precise cause remains uncertain, various theories have been suggested. The clinical presentation of mesenteric cysts is variable. Surgical intervention remains the primary treatment approach for managing mesenteric cysts.

CONCLUSION

Chylous mesenteric cysts are rare, benign intra-abdominal tumors that often present with nonspecific clinical features, making their diagnosis challenging. These cysts should always be included in the differential diagnosis when evaluating abdominal cystic lesions.