Recurrent Sigmoiditis Unveiling a Rare Entity: A Case Report of Cystic Lymphangioma

Abstract

Aims: Cystic lymphangiomas (CLs), although rare in the gastrointestinal tract, can present diagnostic challenges due to their nonspecific clinical manifestations. Presentation of the Case: A 31-year-old woman with a history of recurrent sigmoiditis underwent a prophylactic sigmoidectomy due to persistent abdominal pain despite antibiotic therapy. Histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed a 4 cm cystic lymphangioma in the subserosa. Discussion: The diagnosis of intra-abdominal CLs is often delayed due to their nonspecific clinical presentation and rarity. Imaging modalities like ultrasound, CT, and MRI can aid in diagnosis, and only confirmed by histopathological examinationl. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment for symptomatic CLs. Conclusion: This case highlights  the difficulty to diagnosis intra-abdominal cystic lymphangiomas due to their non-specific symptoms. Accurate imaging and histopathological analysis are the keys to an accurate diagnosis. Successful management and minimisation of the risk of recurrence depends on early detection and complete surgical resection.