A rare case of retroperitoneal and mesenteric lymphangiomatosis

Lymphagiomatosis are rare benign malformations of the lymphatic system. They are more commonly seen during childhood and are frequently asymptomatic and incidentally found in the adult patient. We report a case of a 31-year-old male who presented initially with melena. Computer tomography scan revealed multiple confluent, fluid-density lesions encasing the retroperitoneum and mesentery. A laparotomy and incisional biopsy of the mesenteric lesion was performed. Histologic examination demonstrated fibrofatty tissue with prominent, thick-walled endothelial-lined vessels. The histologic and computer tomography findings were consistent with a diagnosis of retroperitoneal and mesenteric lymphangiomatosis. The patient was subsequently discharged home well.