The Multi-Detector CT findings of giant abdominal lymphangiectasis mimicking a mesenteric cystic mass in a patient with midgut volvulus

Our purpose is to show the Multi-Detector CT (MDCT) findings of an intra-abdominal giant cystic lesion with midgut volvulus and to share our experience with giant lymphangiectasis mimicking a mesenteric cyst or a cystic mass. The pathological evaluation indicated that the cyst contained abdominal lymphatic material. Malrotation is usually detected in infants and children, but rarely in adults. In patients with chronic and recurrent volvulus, chronic venous congestion with lymphatic engorgement may occur. Interference with lymphatic drainage may result in formation of a lymphangioma or a chylous mesenteric cyst. In our case, because of the intestinal lymphatic torsion, there was a cystic lesion mimicking a mesenteric cyst or a cystic mass. To our knowledge, this is the first case of midgut volvulus and large mesenteric lymphangiectasis to be depicted by MDCT.