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Published on: January 2, 2026
[Cystic lymphatic malformation of the pancreas in a 13-month-old child]
María G Salvo1, Brian M Cavagnari, José H Méndez
1Departamento de Pediatría, Hospital Alemán, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires.
Insights
Pancreatic lymphatic malformations are rare in children. This case highlights potential complications after surgical resection, suggesting a need to explore non-surgical management for these pancreatic cysts.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Vascular Anomalies
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Lymphatic malformations (LMs) arise from abnormal lymphatic development, causing lymph flow obstruction and cyst formation.
- While commonly found in the neck/axilla (95%), pancreatic LMs are exceptionally rare in pediatric patients.
- Distinguishing pancreatic LMs from other cystic pancreatic masses is crucial for appropriate management.
Observation:
- A 13-month-old child presented with a rare pancreatic head lymphatic malformation.
- Surgical resection via pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed.
- The patient experienced persistent chylous drainage post-surgery, leading to immunodeficiency and sepsis.
Findings:
- Pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic head LMs can lead to severe complications like chylous drainage and sepsis.
- The case underscores the challenges in managing pediatric pancreatic cystic lesions.
- Non-surgical approaches warrant consideration for pancreatic lymphatic malformations.
Implications:
- This case suggests that surgical intervention for pancreatic head LMs may carry significant risks in children.
- Further research into conservative or minimally invasive treatments is needed.
- Improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are required for rare pediatric pancreatic cystic masses.
Abstract:
Lymphatic malformations--previously called "lymphangiomas"--emerge due to an abnormal development of the lymphatic channels, with obstruction of the lymph flow and formation of lymphatic cysts. These cystic masses are frequently located in the neck and axillary region (95%). A pancreatic localization is extremely rare in children. Pancreatic lymphatic malformations should be distinguished from other cystic pancreatic masses. For those located in the head of the pancreas, a pancreaticoduodenectomy is proposed. We report the case of a 13-month-old child with a lymphatic malformation on the pancreas head, resected through a pancreaticoduodenectomy. A persistent chylous drainage followed, causing immunitary impairment and an overwhelming sepsis. A non surgical approach to this lesion is discussed, and a literature review is made.
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