[Atypical intraperitoneal cystic masses]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Abdominal Imaging
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Omental, mesenteric, and retroperitoneal cystic masses are exceptionally rare in children.
• These masses typically present as asymptomatic abdominal tumors, with preoperative diagnosis being infrequent.

Observation:

• Four male pediatric patients (5 months to 7 years) were treated over a 2-year period.
• Three patients had prior diagnosis via abdominal ultrasound.
• Presentations included acute abdomen (3) and bowel obstruction (1).

Findings:

• All four patients underwent successful surgical resection of their cystic masses.
• No perioperative mortality was observed in this cohort.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing pediatric abdominal cystic masses.
• This case series underscores the importance of considering these rare entities in pediatric surgical evaluations.