Non-contrast 3D MR lymphography of retroperitoneal lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation: a continuous spectrum of change from normal variants to cystic lymphangioma

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to demonstrate the characteristic features of retroperitoneal lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation with three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance (MR) lymphography. CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional MR lymphography demonstrates that retroperitoneal lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation exhibits a continuous spectrum of change from normal variants to lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation and so-called cystic lymphangioma. MAIN MESSAGE: • Non-contrast MR lymphography with very heavily T2-weighted fast spin echo sequences is a useful non-invasive technique without the need of contrast medium injection to obtain a unique evaluation of the lymphatic system • To prove the lymphatic origin of a cystic formation, it is essential to demonstrate the communication with retroperitoneal lymphatic vessels • 3D MR lymphography demonstrates that retroperitoneal lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation exhibits a continuous spectrum of change from normal variants to lymphatic aneurysmal dilatation and so-called cystic lymphangioma.