Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma: a congenital and an acquired anomaly? Two cases and a review of the literature

Abstract

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma is an uncommon benign abdominal mass. Two cases of mesenteric cystic lymphangioma are presented, both in combination with malrotation and intermittent volvulus. Both mesenteric cystic lymphangiomas were located near the duodenojejunal junction, the usual area of torsion in case of a volvulus. These findings suggest that mesenteric cystic lymphangioma could have evolved as a consequence of chronic intermittent volvulus. We hypothesize that in patients with malrotation and volvulus, mesenteric cystic lymphangioma may be regarded as an acquired anomaly.