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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.
Abdominal lymphatic malformations (LM) are rare cystic masses that can challenge diagnosis in young patients. Radiologists should consider LM in pediatric cystic abdominal masses, noting characteristic imaging findings.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Imaging
- Vascular Anomalies
Background:
- Abdominal lymphatic malformations (LM) are rare focal lesions.
- They pose diagnostic challenges, particularly in pediatric patients.
- This review provides current information on LM manifestations and diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To offer updated information on various types of abdominal lymphatic malformations.
- To discuss associated syndromes and characteristic imaging features.
- To aid in the diagnosis of abdominal LM.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of abdominal lymphatic malformations.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and imaging features.
- Discussion of differential diagnoses and related syndromes.
Main Results:
- Abdominal LM often present as asymptomatic, incidental findings of thin-walled cystic masses.
- Cystic fluid can be proteinaceous, hemorrhagic, or infected.
- Key imaging features include lack of solid components and wall/septal enhancement, differentiating from other cystic diseases.
Conclusions:
- Abdominal LM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cystic abdominal masses in children and young adults.
- Central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA) and generalized lymphatic anomaly (GLA) are newly defined entities within the LM spectrum.
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