Bilateral Renal Lymphangiectasia with No Significant Morbidity for Over 25 Years: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Renal lymphangiectasia is a rare benign disorder with unknown pathophysiology. Renal lymphangiectasia can affect both males and females with no known age predilection. Its diagnosis can be accomplished with radiological images and confirmed by aspiration of lymphatic fluid in certain cases. However, there is no clear presentation to be relied on, apart from incidental findings or presentation of complications, such as hypertension due to mass effect on the kidney or renal failure from chronic compression and obstruction or renal vein thrombosis. Management is directed toward symptomatic relief and protection of the kidneys from failure or obstruction. The timing of possible complications and the duration of conservative therapy are undetermined. CASE REPORT Here, we present a case of a healthy 39-year-old woman with bilateral renal lymphangiectasia. It was initially discovered and confirmed to be lymphangiectasia when she was 13 years old and underwent bilateral renal aspiration. She recently presented to the Emergency Department with abdominal symptoms that were found to be caused by diverticulitis. The radiological images showed the persistence of her previous diagnosis of bilateral renal lymphangiectasia. She has had the same condition for more than 25 years, with no related complications or further intervention beyond conservative management. CONCLUSIONS Renal lymphangiectasia has a benign long-term course with insignificant and minor effects in certain patients regardless of the considerable size of cysts and bilateral involvement of the kidneys. The findings of our case could reassure patients with a diagnosis of a similar condition.