[Thoracic duct cyst--a case report]

A case of thoracic duct cyst was reported. The patient, 72 year old man, was admitted with chief complaint of dysphagia. Chest X-ray film demonstrated an ovoid mass at the right upper mediastinum and the esophagus pressed by the tumor to the right. CT scan showed a round tumor with obscure margin located at the right upper mediastinum. Other laboratory data were almost within normal limits. Thoracotomy was performed on March 26, 1987 under diagnosis of leiomyoma of the esophagus. A fluid containing cyst covered with pleura was found at the upper mediastinum. The tumor was connected to the thoracic duct at its upper and lower portion. The cyst was isolated by sharp and blunt dissection without difficulties and removed. The cyst measured 7.5 X 4.5 X 4.5 cm and contained chyle. Pathological examination revealed no evidence of malignancy. Postoperative course of this patient was uneventful, and dysphagia was disappeared.