Mesenteric cysts are fluid-filled sacs that occur in the mesentery, the tissue that connects the intestine to the abdominal wall. The word "mesenteric" is pronounced /ˌmɛsənˈtɛrɪk/ with stress on the second syllable. The spelling of "mesenteric" follows the standard English pronunciation rules. The word "cysts" is pronounced /sɪsts/ with stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "cysts" follows the Latin origin of the word, where "cystis" means "bladder" or "pouch." Mesenteric cysts are rare but can cause abdominal pain and other complications if left untreated.
Mesenteric cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pouches that develop in the mesentery, a fold of tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. The mesentery contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels that support the intestines. Mesenteric cysts are considered rare, noncancerous abdominal tumors that can occur at any age, although they are more commonly found in middle-aged women.
These cysts can vary in size, ranging from a few centimeters to larger masses, and they can be single or multiple. They are typically lined by a layer of cells that secrete fluid, which fills up the cyst. The exact cause of mesenteric cysts is not well understood, although theories suggest developmental abnormalities or blockage of the lymphatic vessels as possible factors.
Symptoms of mesenteric cysts may vary depending on the size and location of the cysts. Some individuals may not experience any symptoms, while others may have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a palpable mass. In some cases, the cysts can grow and cause complications, such as intestinal obstruction or compression of nearby organs.
Diagnosis of mesenteric cysts usually involves imaging tests, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment options typically involve surgical removal of the cyst, especially if it causes symptoms or complications. In some cases, a minimally invasive approach may be possible, where the cyst is drained or removed using laparoscopy. Regular follow-up may be necessary to monitor for recurrence or complications following treatment.
The word "mesenteric" in "mesenteric cysts" is derived from the Latin term "mesenterium", which refers to the membranous structure that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. It originates from the combination of the Greek words "mesos" meaning "middle" and "enteron" meaning "intestine".
The word "cyst", on the other hand, is derived from the Greek term "kystis", which means "bladder" or "pouch". It was later adopted into Latin as "cystis" and eventually entered the English language as "cyst". In medical terminology, a cyst refers to an abnormal, fluid-filled sac.