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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
A Patient-Derived Xenograft Model for Venous Malformation
Published on: June 15, 2020
Abdominal lymphatic malformations
W A Wohlgemuth1, R Brill2, L M Dendl3
1University Clinic and Policlinic of Radiology, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany. walter.wohlgemuth@uk-halle.de.
Background:
Abdominal lymphatic malformations (LM) are relatively rare findings in the differential diagnosis of focal abdominal lesions; however, they represent a challenge especially in younger patients. The aim of this review article is to provide up-to-date information about the different kinds of LM manifestations. In addition, related syndromes and typical imaging features to facilitate the diagnosis are discussed.
Results:
The clinical presentation of abdominal LM is unspecific, whereby most are asymptomatic and comprise incidental findings of thin-walled cystic masses anywhere in the abdomen. The fluid in the cystic masses may be proteinaceous, contain blood, or be infected. Radiological imaging features overlap with other cystic diseases; hallmark in LM is a lack of a solid component and exclusive enhancement of the walls and septa.
Conclusion:
In cystic abdominal masses in early childhood or young adults, abdominal LM must be taken into account by the radiologist. Newly defined entities in this spectrum of diseases are central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA) and generalized lymphatic anomaly (GLA).
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