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Isolated mediastinal lymphangioma herniating through the intercostal space
Rakesh Handa1, Ravi Kale, Krishan K Upadhyay
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, India. rakeshhanda@touchtelindia.net
Asian Journal of Surgery
|November 27, 2004
Summary
Congenital lymphangiomas, typically appearing in infancy, rarely present as isolated mediastinal masses. This case highlights a unique instance of mediastinal lymphangioma herniating to the parasternal region without cervical involvement.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Lymphangiomas are benign congenital malformations of the lymphatic system, commonly diagnosed within the first two years of life.
- While cervical lymphangiomas are most frequent (75%), intrathoracic extension occurs in only 2-3% of cases.
- Isolated mediastinal lymphangiomas lacking cervical components are exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A case of an isolated mediastinal lymphangioma is presented.
- The tumor uniquely herniated through the intercostal space.
- This resulted in a parasternal cystic mass presentation.
Findings:
- The presented case represents the first reported instance of a mediastinal lymphangioma herniating through the intercostal space.
- This specific presentation challenges typical clinical expectations for lymphangioma localization.
- Diagnostic imaging confirmed a cystic mass in the parasternal region with mediastinal origin.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of lymphangioma presentations.
- It underscores the importance of considering rare differential diagnoses in pediatric thoracic masses.
- Awareness of this herniation pattern can aid in timely diagnosis and surgical planning for pediatric patients.