Giant retroperitoneal myxoma: A case report and literature review

Myxoma is a benign tumor and is mesenchymal in origin. Myxomas of the retroperitoneum are extremely rare entities.

We here report a case of a 67-year-old male who presented with progressive abdominal distention for 3 years. Laboratory investigations revealed a reduction in erythrocytes, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, and an elevation in carbohydrate antigen 19-9. Imaging findings showed a multilocular cystic mass in the right abdomen with thin septa and internal calcifications. Laparotomy revealed that the mass had arisen from the retroperitoneum and the histological study suggested the diagnosis of myxoma.

Myxoma features as a "cystic mass" in imaging studies. Therefore, the possibility of a cystic lymphangioma, cystic mesothelioma and myxoma should be considered when a multicystic lesion in the retroperitoneal space is observed. Due to the rarity of retroperitoneal myxomas and lack of specific manifestations and diagnostic methods, preoperative diagnosis is often delayed or incorrect. And until now, only a few cases of retroperitoneal myxoma have been reported.

The report will increase the understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of retroperitoneal myxomas. A brief review of the related literature was also carried out.