Mesenteric cyst associated with protein loss in the gastrointestinal tract. Study with lymphangiography.

Abstract

A child with hypoproteinemia and edema due to gastrointestinal protein loss was found to have a large cystic lymphangioma of the mesentery. Direct injection of ethiodol into the cyst demonstrated free communication with a dilated thoracic duct. Backflow into the cyst was noted on lymphangiography via the lower extremities.This case suggests that lymphatic obstruction may not be the pathogenetic mechanism of congenital mesenteric cysts.The relationship of the cyst to gastrointestinal protein loss is not clear.