Splenic Cavernous Lymphangioma Mimicking Splenic Hemangioma

Lymphangioma of the spleen is a rare benign neoplasm with clinical manifestations ranging from insignificant incidental findings to large, symptomatic cystic masses requiring surgical intervention. We report a case of splenic cavernous lymphangioma mimicking splenic hemangioma. A 59-year-old woman presented with left upper quadrant pain and epigastric discomfort. Computed tomography showed a 9.5×8 cm high attenuated mass with relatively homogenous enhancement in the spleen. The initial impression was a splenic hemangioma. The patient underwent splenectomy. Gross pathologic examination revealed a 9.5×6.8×9 cm-sized fairly well circumscribed soft mass. Histologically, the tumor was composed of dilated lymphatic vessels, which contained homogenous eosinophilic material. The Final diagnosis was cavernous lymphangioma of the spleen. Herein, we report a case of splenic cavernous lymphangioma mimicking splenic hemangioma and also review the existing literature. (J Korean Surg Soc 2009;77:434-437)