Retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma. A rare tumor in adulthood

Abstract

Background: lymphangiomas are rare benign tumors of the lymphatic system, being more common in the pediatric population. Intra-abdominal localization is very rare; only 1 % of lymphangiomas appear in the retroperitoneum. We report a case of a rare tumor because of its location and the elderly age of presentation. Retroperitoneal lymphangioma is a rare tumor with an unertain pathogenesis. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by imaging studies , e.g., US, MRI or CT. Although they are benign tumors, complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice. With this treatment, complications like infection, perforation or bleeding are prevented. Our case is unusual because of the retroperitoneal location of the tumor and the late age of presentation