A mesenteric cyst is a rare congenital or acquired lesion that forms in the mesentery, which is a fold of tissue that attaches the intestine to the back of the abdominal wall.
Types
1. Congenital Mesenteric Cysts
These are rare, benign cysts that form during embryonic development.
They are usually filled with a clear or yellowish fluid and may contain a fibrous wall.
2. Acquired Mesenteric Cysts
These cysts develop in response to trauma, infection, or other conditions.
They may be filled with a variety of substances, including pus or blood.
3. Chylous Mesenteric Cysts
These cysts are filled with chyle, a milky fluid that is formed in the lymphatic system.
They are usually located in the small intestine and may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
4. Enteric Duplication Cysts
These cysts are a rare congenital anomaly that involves the formation of a cystic structure within the wall of the intestine.
They may be filled with a variety of substances, including mucus, pus, or blood.
Causes
Congenital mesenteric cysts are thought to arise from abnormalities in the development of the mesentery.
Acquired mesenteric cysts may develop in response to trauma, infection, or other conditions.
Clinical Features
Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of a mesenteric cyst.
Other symptoms may include:
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Abdominal tenderness
• Mass in the abdomen
Investigations
Diagnosis is usually made using imaging studies, such as:
• CT scan
• MRI scan
• Ultrasound
• X-rays
Complications
Mesenteric cysts can cause a variety of complications, including:
• Intestinal obstruction
• Bowel ischemia
• Perforation
• Abscess formation
Management
The management of a mesenteric cyst depends on its location, size, and symptoms.
Treatment options may include:
• Surgery
• Drainage
• Embolization
Treatment
Surgery is usually the recommended treatment for a mesenteric cyst.
The goal of surgery is to remove the cyst and any affected tissue.
Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines
Arsenicum album: for symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
Carbo vegetalis: for symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
Nux vomica: for symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
Sulphur: for symptoms such as skin rash, itching, and abdominal pain.
Surgical Steps
Step 1 → Incision in the skin to access the cyst.
Step 2 → Identification and ligation of the cyst's blood supply.
Step 3 → Removal of the cyst and any affected tissue.
Step 4 → Closure of the incision.
Blood Supply
The blood supply to a mesenteric cyst is usually from the superior mesenteric artery.
Nerve Supply
The nerve supply to a mesenteric cyst is usually from the vagus nerve and the sympathetic nerves.
Clinical Anatomy
The mesentery is a fold of tissue that attaches the intestine to the back of the abdominal wall.
It contains blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves.