Retroperitoneal Mucinous Cystadenoma

ABSTRACT

We present a case of a primary retroperitoneal mucinous cystadenoma, which is a relatively rare tumor found exclusively in women. This tumor is difficult to correctly diagnose preoperatively. Although there is little published information regarding the CEA levels in the cystic fluid of cystic tumors arising in the retroperitoneum, a high CEA level in the cystic fluid is a useful diagnostic marker for a primary retroperitoneal mucinous tumor. The appropriate management of retroperitoneal mucinous cystadenomas is the total removal of the cyst. The retroperitoneal approach for retroperitoneal cystic tumors is useful, has a lower risk of traumatizing the bowel than the intra-abdominal approach, and does not require compression of the other organs. We report the successful resection of a retroperitoneal mucinous cystadenoma through the retroperitoneal approach.