Unusual presentation of 22-kilogram retroperitoneal müllerian serous cystadenoma.
BACKGROUND
Müllerian cyst of the retroperitoneum is an extremely rare disease that is thought to be a subtype of urogenital cyst. It is a benign condition that can only be diagnosed and cured by surgical resection.


METHODS
An 80-year-old female with a huge cystic swelling, thought to be ovarian in origin, underwent laparotomy. Surgical exploration and subsequent histopathological analysis of the cyst revealed a müllerian serous cystadenoma of the retroperitoneum, 22 kg in weight. Preoperative ultrasound scan and computed tomography failed to elucidate a correct preoperative etiology.


CONCLUSIONS
Huge retroperitoneal cysts may coexist with other pelvic pathology creating diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. The use of computed tomography for diagnosis may be not helpful with huge cysts. Good preoperative preparation and surgical technique are essential for managing these cases.
Kassab
A
A
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3LJ, UK. kassab1963@yahoo.com
El-Bialy
G
G
Clark
J
J
Callen
P
P
Powari
M
M
Jones
H
H
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018293:Cystadenoma, Serous / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D003560:Cysts / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009095:Mullerian Ducts / Q000473:pathology*; D012186:Retroperitoneal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D014463:Ultrasonography