Mesenteric cysts: an institution experience over 14 years and review of literature.

Background: Mesenteric cysts are rare intra-abdominal lesions and account for only one in 100,000 acute adult admissions. There is a broad spectrum of symptoms and patients present with nonspecific complaints of abdominal pain, distension, or an abdominal mass. In this study, we present a series of patients with mesenteric cysts, with emphasis on the presentation, management, and outcome.

Methods: A total of 16 cases presented to our institution from 1994 to 2007. The cases were retrospectively reviewed and information was culled from the case documents.

Results: There were nine females and seven males (age range, 12-68 years). The most common presentation was abdominal pain (63%), followed by abdominal mass (44%). Laparoscopic surgical excision of the cyst was performed in 3 (19%) patients, laparotomy in 12 (75%), and 1 patient refused surgery. The size of the cyst ranged from 4 to 29 cm. The cyst originated from the retroperitoneum in five patients, the sigmoid mesocolon in four patients, and small bowel mesentery in four patients. Although most of the cysts were benign, three had foci of malignancy and another had a focus of gastrointestinal stromal tumor. None of the cases recurred during follow-up.

Conclusions: Mesenteric cysts have diverse presentation and arise from a variety of sites. They can be successfully managed by complete resection, and laparoscopic excision of the cysts is becoming an increasingly popular option.