Ileal volvulus secondary to cystic lymphangioma: A rare case report with a literature review

Abstract

Lymphangioma is a benign malformation of the lymphatic system. It usually affects the neck, head, and rarely, the abdomen. Volvulus is a serious condition, which occurs as a result of bowel twisting around itself or around the mesentery leading to severe consequences such as obstruction. The most common cause of volvulus in children is malrotation. We report a rare case of a 2-year-old boy who was brought by his parents to the emergency room with the complaint of constipation for 5 days and vomiting for the last 4 days. Examination and plain abdominal X-ray suggested intestinal obstruction. Furthermore, ultrasonography indicated the presence of a cyst and dilatation of the bowel. On exploratory laparotomy, an ileal volvulus caused by cystic lymphangioma developed on the mesenteric wall and associated with ileal and jejunal dilatation was observed. The diseased segments were resected in addition to 5cm before and after the cystic lymphangioma to prevent recurrence.

Keywords

• lymphangioma
• obstruction
• volvulus