Background: Mesenteric cysts have been typically described as cystic lesions of mesentery or omentum occurring either intra-abdominally or in the retroperitoneum. With no typical symptoms, the preoperative diagnosis of mesenteric cyst becomes challenging to establish.
Patient and methods: In this case report, we describe the case of a 29-year-old female who presented with abdominal distension for seven years associated with intermittent constipation. Following complete history, a meticulous physical examination was performed. Laboratory investigations and radiological imaging techniques were used to facilitate the diagnosis which was confirmed on laparotomy.
Results: Physical examination revealed abdominal ascites. Laboratory investigations were unremarkable. Abdominal ultrasound revealed multiloculated massive ascites. A well-defined cystic area 27 × 18cm displacing abdominal viscera was observed on computed tomography (abdomen and pelvis) with contrast medium. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a massive cyst involving almost the entire peritoneal cavity. On histopathology, no signs of malignancy were reported. The post-operative course was excellent, and the patient was discharged following surgery.
Conclusion: As this lesion is rarely considered preoperatively, and the clinical manifestations can be non-specific, we report this case of mesenteric cyst mimicking ascites in order to inform improved decision making among healthcare professionals regarding the timely diagnosis and appropriate management.
Keywords: Ascites; Mesenteric cyst; Peritoneal diseases; Peritoneal neoplasms.
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