Atypical Presentation of Bronchogenic Cyst in the Retroperitoneal Space

Cureus. 2024 Feb 27;16(2):e55029. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55029. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Bronchogenic cysts, benign congenital malformations resulting from abnormal tracheobronchial tree budding, primarily manifest in the mediastinum, with retroperitoneal occurrence being exceedingly rare. Typically incidental findings on imaging, and their diagnosis pose challenges, particularly when malignancy is suspected. We present a case involving a 55-year-old woman diagnosed with chronic back pain. Physical examination revealed a painful mass in the left renal region. Subsequent MRI identified a smooth mass in the left adrenal gland without infiltration of surrounding structures. Laparoscopic surgery successfully removed the lesion without complications. Pathomorphological examination confirmed a gelatinous-filled cyst, identified as a retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst in the left adrenal gland. Increasing reports of retroperitoneal bronchogenic cysts contribute to a better understanding of their characteristics, aiding preoperative diagnosis. However, given potential malignancy and definitive diagnosis through histopathological examination, surgical resection remains the preferred method.

Keywords: adrenal lesion; bronchogenic cyst; cancer; differential diagnosis; laparoscopic surgery; retroperitoneal nodule.

Publication types

  • Case Reports