Laparoscopic Spleen-Preserving Decapsulation of a Primary Splenic Cyst in a 9-Year-Old Girl: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Splenic cysts are rare and can be classified as true cysts or pseudocysts. True cysts are further categorized into primary parasitic and non-parasitic types. Among primary congenital cysts, epithelial, epidermoid, and dermoid cysts are noted. These cysts are often asymptomatic and are typically discovered incidentally through imaging studies such as ultrasonography, CT, or MRI. Laparoscopic surgery is considered a safe and effective option for the management of splenic cysts, with spleen preservation being preferred whenever feasible. Various laparoscopic techniques are available, including partial splenectomy, decapsulation, cyst fenestration, and unroofing of the cyst. We report a rare case of a primary splenic epithelial cyst in a 9-year-old girl, diagnosed via CT imaging of the abdomen. Laparoscopic decapsulation was successfully performed, preserving the spleen and achieving effective management of the cyst.