Mesenteric cystic masses: a series of 21 pediatric cases and review of the literature.

Mesenteric cysts, seen in all age groups, represent a rare cause of benign abdominal masses in children. We reviewed 21 patients with mesenteric/omental cysts. Gross and radiologic images, along with histologic sections, were reviewed to categorize the structures and determine the relationship to the mesentery and intestines. The cysts were composed of multi-loculated dilated channels at the serosal surface consistent with lymphangioma. Most treatment was simple excision, infrequently with intestinal resection. Nineteen patients did well after surgery. One patient developed short-gut syndrome after massive bowel resection, and one patient died immediately after birth due to massive fetal hydrops and heart failure.