[Mediastinal localisation of a thoracic duct lymphocele--account of a surgical case].

Introduction: Lymphocele of the thoracic duct is a rare pathological entity occurring as a consequence of deterioration and cystic dilation wall of this vessel. It may be of congenital or degenerative origin.

Observation: We report the case of a 47 year old patient, operated on for a symptomatic cyst localised by CT scan to the inferoposterior mediastinum. At postero-lateral thoracotomy it was identified as a lymphocele and completely resected. Chemical analysis of the liquid and histopathology study of the cystic wall confirmed the diagnosis. The patient's post operative course was uneventful.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates the clinical characteristics of this entity and describes diagnostic techniques and surgical management.