Cystic lymphangiomas of the cauda equina

Background context: Lymphangiomas, benign hamartomatous lesions of the lymph tissue, result from a failure of lymph channels to communicate with the venous system or normal lymph channels. Previously, two reports described lymphangiomas arising in the peripheral nerve (ulnar nerve and posterior tibial nerve). Purpose: To report a rare case of cystic lymphangiomas of the cauda equina not previously reported. Study design: Case report. Patient sample: A 56-year-old Japanese man. Methods: Not applicable. Result: The patient recovered from most of his symptoms after tumor extirpation. He had no symptoms at a 5.8-year follow-up. Conclusions: We believe this is the first case report of lymphangiomas originating from the cauda equina, which was effectively treated by surgery.