Large cystic tumour at the chest wall mimicking an echinococcosis: a case report

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2008 Oct;61(10):e13-6. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2007.10.040. Epub 2007 Dec 3.

Abstract

The authors report an atypical late onset of a big axillary lymphatic malformation in a 41-year-old male. Considering the patient's history and clinical findings at first presentation, the swelling was highly suspicious for malignancy or cystic echinococcosis. A consequent CT showed non infiltrative growth with inhomogeneous density but remained non conclusive regarding diagnosis. Subsequently incision biopsy revealed lymphatic tissue and raised suspicion for lymphatic malformation. The tumour was excised completely and showed no recurrence in a 1-year follow up. Late onset lymphatic malformations can mimic malignant tumours or other rare conditions such as echinococcosis which has to be taken into consideration as differential diagnosis especially in known areas of hydatid diseases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Brazil / ethnology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Echinococcosis / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Lymphangioma, Cystic / diagnostic imaging
  • Lymphangioma, Cystic / pathology*
  • Lymphangioma, Cystic / surgery
  • Male
  • Thoracic Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Thoracic Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thoracic Wall / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Wall / pathology*
  • Thoracic Wall / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed