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Published on: May 1, 2015

Ruptured retroperitoneal lymphatic malformation

Nancy E Rifenburg1, Beau Batton, Aruna Vade

  • 1Department of Radiology, Loyola University Medical Center, 2160 S First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.

Computerized Medical Imaging and Graphics : the Official Journal of the Computerized Medical Imaging Society
|December 28, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Retroperitoneal lymphatic malformations can mimic tumors and ascites. This case highlights a rare instance where these malformations caused massive chylous ascites in an infant.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Retroperitoneal lymphatic malformations (RLMs) can present as abdominal masses.
  • They may cause organ displacement and mimic malignancies, complicating diagnosis.
  • RLMs are an uncommon cause of ascites.

Observation:

  • An infant presented with findings suggestive of a malignant retroperitoneal tumor.
  • Computed tomography (CT) revealed a cystic retroperitoneal lymphatic malformation.
  • Massive chylous ascites was a prominent feature.

Findings:

  • The cystic RLM was identified as the source of chylous ascites.
  • CT imaging demonstrated significant displacement of adjacent organs.
  • The malformation mimicked other retroperitoneal pathologies.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering RLMs in the differential diagnosis of infant abdominal masses and ascites.
  • Accurate CT interpretation is crucial for differentiating benign lymphatic malformations from malignant tumors.
  • Understanding this rare presentation aids in appropriate clinical management and surgical planning.

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