Cystic Lymphangioma in the Talus Bone: A Case Report

Lymphangiomas, predominantly observed in pediatric populations, can occasionally be acquired in adulthood. They are rare benign tumors mostly found in the head and neck region, with solitary cystic lymphangioma in bone being very rare.

We report an uncommon case of a solitary cystic lymphangioma in the talus bone of a 19-year-old Chinese female presented with a history of enduring ankle swelling, rest pain, and frequent sprains. The patient's T2-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a cystic bone lesion with multiple internal fluid levels, which initially suggested a Giant Cell Tumor (GCT) or chondroblastoma with secondary Aneurysmal Bone Cyst (ABC) change. However, histopathological examination of the tissue sample obtained through curettage suggested the diagnosis of intraosseous lymphangioma. The postoperative period was uneventful with no complications. Patients restored near normal ankle range of motion and there have been no signs of recurrence.

This case demonstrates the importance of considering a broad differential diagnosis when evaluating bone lesions, and it underlines the need to correlate pathological findings with radiographic images and clinical examination for an accurate diagnosis.