Case Report of a Rare Cystic Mediastinal Lymphangioma Mimicking Recurrent Pleural Effusion. (26th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Salehi, Fateme; Landis, Mark; Inculet, Richard; Wiseman, Daniele
• Other Names: Monfardini Lorenzo Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in radiology. Volume 2019(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-05-26
• Subjects: Radiology -- Periodicals; Radiology -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Medical radiology -- Periodicals; Radiology; Radiology; Medical radiology; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1155/2019/1301845
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6862

Abstract

Abstract : Mediastinal lymphangiomas are rare benign congenital malformations, but complications can occur, including infection, cystic hemorrhage, superior vena cava syndrome, airway compromise, and chylothorax. Radiologically, lymphangiomas are well-defined masses, with low attenuation ranging from simple to complex fluid and fat. They often encase adjacent mediastinal structures. We present a case of mediastinal lymphangioma in a young female, who presented with recurrent complex pleural effusions, initially thought to represent an empyema and/or necrotic mass. Despite surgical chest tube and interventional radiology drainage, fluid reaccumulated. Upon further review, the interventional and thoracic radiologist concurred that the complex collection was in fact predominantly extra pleural in location. The patient underwent partial resection after it was discovered intraoperatively that the extra pleural cystic mass was contiguous with and extended deeply into the mediastinum. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of lymphangioma.