Mesenteric cysts - A series of six cases with a review of the literature

Background: Symptomatic mesenteric cysts account for only 1 in 100,000 acut e adult and 1 in 20,000 acute paediatric admissions, Acute symptoms are rel ated to compression of intra-abdominal organs or stretching of the mesenter y by rapid expansion. An abdominal mass, mobile in transverse but not longi tudinal plane, is often the only physical finding. Method: We outline the presentation, management and histological findings o f 6 cases that presented to this hospital from 1987-1997, Results: There were 5 adults aged 32-79 yr and an 8 yr old boy. The child p resented acutely with a painful tender abdominal mass, Of the adults, 1 pre sented acutely, 2 with chronic symptoms and 2 were incidental findings. Mes enteric cysts were successfully resected in all cases. Conclusion: Surgical intervention is recommended and resection of adjacent bowel may be necessary for complete excision, Successful minimal access sur gery via the laparoscope has been reported and may become more widely appli cable.