Peritonitis caused by a ruptured, infected mesenteric cyst initially interpreted as an ovarian cyst. A case report

Kyousuke Takeuchi1, Yukiko Takaya, Kosaku Maeda

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan. kyousuke@skyblue.ocn.ne.jp

Insights

Mesenteric cysts, rare childhood abdominal masses, can present as acute abdomen. A ruptured, infected mesenteric cyst mimicked an ovarian cyst, highlighting diagnostic challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Pediatric Gynecology
  • Abdominal Imaging

Background:

  • Mesenteric cysts are uncommon intraabdominal masses in children.
  • Presentation varies from asymptomatic to acute abdomen.

Observation:

  • A case of peritonitis due to a ruptured, infected mesenteric cyst of the mesocolon in a female child is presented.
  • The initial diagnosis was a ruptured ovarian cyst.

Findings:

  • Ruptured mesenteric cysts can cause peritonitis.
  • Misdiagnosis can occur, especially when mimicking ovarian pathology.

Implications:

  • Gynecologists should include mesenteric cysts in the differential diagnosis for large, echolucent lower abdominal masses in female children.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent complications like peritonitis.
Abstract

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