Focus on Surgical Techniques from Bench to Bedside

Thoracic duct cyst of posterior mediastinum: a “challenging” differential diagnosis

Michalopoulou-Manoloutsiou Electra, Athanasiou Evangelia, Bobos Mattheos, Hatzibougias I. Dimitris, Paul Zarogoulidis, Drosos Tsavlis, Ioanna Kougioumtzi, Nikolaos Machairiotis, Chralampos Charalampidis, Nikolaos Fassiadis, Nikolaos Mparmpetakis, Pavlos Pavlidis, Mpakas Andreas, Arikas Stamatis, Kolettas Alexandros, Tsakiridis Kosmas

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.

Article Options

Download Citation

Share