Cystic lymphangioma of the transverse colon: report of a case and review of the literature.

A 32-year-old Chinese man with cystic lymphangioma of the transverse colon is described. He presented with a 1-year history of altered bowel habits. Double-contrast barium enema study demonstrated a submucosal lesion in the midportion of the transverse colon with intact mucosa. Computed tomography (CT) showed a round 3.0-cm submucosal cystic mass lesion. Colonoscopy revealed a smooth, soft polypoid mass on a broad base. He underwent segmental resection of the colon. Histologically, the lesion was characterized by cystic lymphangioma originating from the submucosa. The clinical features, radiology, appropriate treatment, and possible pathogenesis of colonic lymphangioma are discussed.