2025, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part E
Laparoscopic complete excision of a large retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma in an elderly patient: A case report
Author(s): Mohamed Bouzroud, Imad Elazzaoui, Hakim Elkaoui, Mountassir Moujahid and Sidi Mohamed Bouchentouf
Abstract: Retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma (RCL) is an exceptionally rare benign tumor in adults, accounting for less than 1% of all lymphangiomas. Its non-specific clinical presentation makes pre-operative diagnosis challenging, often mimicking other cystic masses. Complete surgical excision is the gold standard treatment to prevent recurrence.
We present the case of a 75-year-old female patient with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus who presented with chronic left lumbar pain. Imaging (CT and MRI) revealed a large 15x12x8 cm cystic mass in the left retroperitoneum, displacing the kidney and colon. Serum tumor markers were normal.
The patient was managed by a complete laparoscopic excision of the mass. The procedure was successful, with meticulous dissection of the cyst from the ureter and kidney, and extraction using a "puncture-in-the-bag" technique. The post-operative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on post-operative day 3. Histopathology confirmed a benign cystic lymphangioma. At 2-year follow-up, the patient remains asymptomatic with no signs of recurrence.
This case demonstrates that complete laparoscopic excision of a large retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma is a safe, feasible, and effective approach, even in elderly and fragile patients. This minimally invasive strategy provides curative treatment while minimizing morbidity and shortening hospital stays.
DOI: 10.22271/27081494.2025.v7.i2e.238Pages: 323-325 | Views: 115 | Downloads: 55Download Full Article: Click Here
How to cite this article:
Mohamed Bouzroud, Imad Elazzaoui, Hakim Elkaoui, Mountassir Moujahid, Sidi Mohamed Bouchentouf.
Laparoscopic complete excision of a large retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma in an elderly patient: A case report. Int J Case Rep Surg 2025;7(2):323-325. DOI:
10.22271/27081494.2025.v7.i2e.238
