Mesenteric Cyst: Causes and Treatment

A mesenteric cyst is a rare fluid-filled sac that can develop in the abdomen. This cyst originates from the mesentery, a fold of tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. Mesenteric cysts can vary in size and are typically benign.

The exact cause of these cysts is not fully understood, but they are believed to form during fetal development or due to blockages in the lymphatic system. If you have been diagnosed with a mesenteric cyst, your healthcare provider can provide you with more information and guidance on managing this condition.

Symptoms of Mesenteric Cyst

Some patients may experience weight loss, constipation, or diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to bowel obstruction or infection. If you have persistent or worsening abdominal symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and proper management.

Abdominal pain: Mesenteric cysts can cause dull or sharp pain in the abdomen, especially after eating or physical activity.
Bloating: Patients with mesenteric cysts may experience abdominal bloating, which can make the stomach feel tight and uncomfortable.
Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals with mesenteric cysts may feel nauseous and vomit, particularly if the cyst is pressing on the surrounding organs.
Changes in bowel habits: Mesenteric cysts can lead to changes in bowel movements, including constipation or diarrhea, due to the cyst putting pressure on the intestines.

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Causes of Mesenteric Cyst

These cysts can also result from trauma or inflammation in the abdominal cavity. While the exact cause is not always clear, they are generally considered rare and benign growths that may not present symptoms until they grow large enough to cause discomfort or complications.

Mesenteric cysts can develop due to congenital abnormalities in the lymphatic system within the mesentery, the tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall.
Inflammatory processes, such as infections or trauma, may lead to the formation of mesenteric cysts as a response to the body's attempt to contain the inflammation.
Neoplastic growths, including benign or malignant tumors, can arise in the mesentery and result in the formation of cystic structures.
Mesenteric cysts may occur as a result of developmental anomalies during embryogenesis, leading to abnormal growth and fluid accumulation in the mesenteric tissue.

Types Of Mesenteric Cyst

Mesenteric cysts come in different types, including simple cysts, lymphangiomas, and enteric cysts. Simple cysts are fluid-filled sacs, lymphangiomas are made up of lymphatic vessels, and enteric cysts contain intestinal tissue.

Each type of mesenteric cyst may present with varying symptoms and require different treatment approaches. If you suspect you have a mesenteric cyst, consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.

Lymphatic Mesenteric Cyst: This type of mesenteric cyst originates from the lymphatic system and is filled with lymph fluid. It is typically benign but can cause symptoms if it grows large enough to compress nearby organs.
Enteric Duplication Cyst: Enteric duplication cysts are rare congenital anomalies that can form within the mesentery. These cysts are lined with gastrointestinal mucosa and can lead to complications such as obstruction or infection.
Mesothelial Inclusion Cyst: Mesothelial inclusion cysts develop from remnants of mesothelial cells within the mesentery. These cysts are usually small and asymptomatic but can occasionally cause discomfort or mimic other abdominal conditions.

Risk Factors

While the exact cause is unknown, some potential risk factors include female gender, young age, and a history of abdominal trauma or surgery. Additionally, certain underlying conditions such as lymphangiomas or mesotheliomas may increase the likelihood of developing a mesenteric cyst.

Mesenteric cysts may occur more frequently in females than in males.
Individuals with a history of abdominal trauma or surgery are at a higher risk of developing mesenteric cysts.
Certain genetic conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), have been linked to an increased susceptibility to mesenteric cyst formation.
Inflammation or infection within the mesentery, the tissue that connects the intestines to the abdominal wall, can predispose a person to mesenteric cyst development.
Older age has been identified as a risk factor for mesenteric cysts, with cases often diagnosed in adults over the age of 40.

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Diagnosis of Mesenteric Cyst

To diagnose a mesenteric cyst, your doctor will conduct a physical exam and order imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These tests help identify the location and size of the cyst. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, so it's important to follow your doctor's recommendations for testing.

Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can help in visualizing the mesenteric cyst and determining its size and location.
Blood tests may be conducted to check for any signs of infection or inflammation that could be associated with the mesenteric cyst.
Fine-needle aspiration may be performed to collect a sample of fluid from the cyst for analysis, which can help in confirming the diagnosis.
Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, may be used both for diagnosis and treatment of mesenteric cysts by directly visualizing the cyst and obtaining a tissue sample.

Treatment for Mesenteric Cyst

Treatment options for mesenteric cyst may include observation, medication, drainage, or surgery. Your healthcare provider will recommend the most suitable option based on the size, location, and symptoms of the cyst. Surgery is typically performed to remove the cyst completely.

It's important to follow your doctor's advice and attend regular follow-up appointments for monitoring and management of the condition.

Surgical excision is the primary treatment for mesenteric cysts, involving the removal of the cyst along with a portion of the affected mesentery to prevent recurrence.
Asymptomatic mesenteric cysts may be managed through close observation with regular imaging studies to monitor for any changes in size or symptoms.
Drainage procedures, such as percutaneous aspiration or sclerotherapy, can be considered for symptomatic patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery.
In cases where the mesenteric cyst is infected or causing significant symptoms, antibiotic therapy may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and infection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What early signs should I look for with mesenteric cyst?

Look for abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

How should I care for myself with mesenteric cyst—what should I do and avoid?

Follow your doctor's advice, take prescribed medications, maintain a healthy diet, avoid heavy lifting, and seek medical attention for any concerning symptoms.

What are the potential complications of mesenteric cyst?

Potential complications of mesenteric cyst include infection, rupture leading to peritonitis, obstruction of the intestines, and compression of nearby structures.

What steps should I take for the management of mesenteric cyst?

Treatment of mesenteric cysts may involve observation, drainage or surgical removal depending on symptoms and size of the cyst. Consult a surgeon for guidance.