High retroperitoneal lymphocele: unusual clinical presentation and diagnosis by ultrasonography

A case of a mid lumbar lymphocele secondary to retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for testicular carcinoma is described. The clinical picture was unusual and confusing in that the symptoms were gastrointestinal in nature. Ultrasound provided the diagnosis and guidance for aspiration. Although the most common operative source of lymphocele formation appears to be the pelvic lymphatics similar collections may arise from para-aortic and renal hilar dissections and produce unusual manifestations. Ultrasound is of established value in such cases.