Thoracic duct cyst of posterior mediastinum: a "challenging" differential diagnosis

Ann Transl Med. 2016 May;4(9):166. doi: 10.21037/atm.2016.04.12.

Abstract

Thoracic duct cysts of the mediastinum are extremely rare entities and their pathogenesis still remains unknown. Imaging methods are not specific and show a cystic mass, however the real nature of the lesion is confirmed only with the help of histopathological examination after surgical excision. Here, we present a case of thoracic cyst in a 28-year-old female, lining in posterior lower mediastinum. The cyst was removed by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and the histopathological findings were that of thoracic duct cyst. Through this case, we propose an ideal surgical approach and diagnostic procedure.

Keywords: Thoracic duct; histopathology; mediastinal cysts; video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS).

Publication types

  • Case Reports