Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults
04:14

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults

Published on: February 28, 2025

Chylous mesenteric cysts in children

Hou-Ping Chen1, Wen-Ying Liu, Yun-Man Tang

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China.

Surgery Today
|March 3, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Chylous mesenteric cysts (CMCs) in children often present as abdominal distention or acute abdomen. Surgical removal of the cyst and affected intestine leads to a good prognosis for these pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Chylous mesenteric cysts (CMCs) are rare congenital anomalies.
  • They can present with varied clinical symptoms, posing diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric chylous mesenteric cysts.
  • To understand the presentation and outcomes of CMCs in children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of clinical records of 10 children with CMCs.
  • Data collected from the Department of Pediatric Surgery between 1987 and 2008.

Main Results:

  • CMCs presented as abdominal distention (9/10), acute abdomen (8/10), or asymptomatic mass (1/10).
  • Mesojejunal (5) and mesoileal (5) cysts were identified, with complications including intestinal volvulus (4) and chylous effusion (2).
  • All patients underwent successful surgical treatment with positive diagnostic tests for chylous content.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric CMCs commonly manifest as abdominal mass, distention, or acute abdomen, differing from adult presentations.
  • Clinical presentation may correlate with cyst location.
  • Surgical excision of the cyst and involved intestinal segment ensures a favorable prognosis.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Cholecystitis01:20

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...
Gallbladder01:17

Gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that plays a crucial role in our digestive system. Measuring about 10 cm in length, it is comparable in size to a kiwi fruit and is located in a hollow area on the lower surface of the liver. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in digestion.
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
Appendicitis01:19

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
Development of the Lymphatic System01:15

Development of the Lymphatic System

The development of lymphatic tissues and vessels in embryonic life begins around the fifth week. These structures originate from the mesoderm layer, with lymph sacs emerging from developing veins.
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis01:23

Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...