Choledochal cyst: A challenging diagnostic and therapeutic entity in low-resource settings

Choledochal cyst is an uncommon congenital biliary tract abnormality of unknown etiology. Its classical symptoms are jaundice, abdominal pain, and right upper quadrant mass. However, the disease may present with a vague and non-specific chronic abdominal discomfort. Delay in diagnosis and management may increase the risk of complications particularly the malignancy, which can directly affect the prognosis and outcome. Complete excision of the extra-hepatic duct, cholecystectomy, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejeunostomy through the open surgical intervention or laparoscopic procedure is the mainstay of treatment.

A 14-year-old male was presented to our hospital complaining of vague abdominal pain for 5 years. The radiologic imaging showed the features of a type IVa choledochal cyst. He underwent complete excision of the extra-hepatic duct, cholecystectomy, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejeunostomy. Although the bile leakage occurred as a complication of the procedure, our team best managed the patient in the post-operative period until full recovery.

The Choledochal cyst was first described by Vater, which is a congenital anomaly that sometimes may remain asymptomatic till adulthood. Surgical intervention is the mainstay of treatment. However, postoperative complications including bile leakage need a close follow-up of the patient.

Diagnostic delay (antenatal and postnatal) and non-specific symptoms will mask the real feature of the disease, especially in low-resource settings. Technical facilities and professional care of the patient may preclude complications.