Mesenteric and Omental Cysts in Infancy and Childhood

ABSTRACT

Mesenteric and omental cysts are rare lesions of childhood. These cysts are similar to cystic hygromas in other parts of the body morphologically and pathologically. From 1980 to 1997, 8 children were diagnosed and treated for mesenteric or omental cysts. Their ages ranged from 18 days to 6 years. There were 5 boys and 3 girls. The main presenting symptom was abdominal pain. Operative procedures were complete cysts excision, complete excision with intestinal resection, or complete excision with intestinal resection and colostomy. Accurate preoperative diagnosis was possible with the current ultrasonographic imaging techniques. Complete excision of the lesion was possible in all patients and resulted in an excellent outcome.