Ectopic retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst mimicking an adrenal hematoma: A case report

A bronchogenic cyst (BC) is a rare congenital bronchopulmonary malformation, typically found in the thoracic cavity and rarely found in the retroperitoneum. Due to its anatomical location, BCs are often misdiagnosed as adrenal or pancreatic solid tumors on radiological evaluation. The present study reports a case of an ectopic BC (EBC) in a patient who presented with left-sided lumbar pain and fever. Initial imaging suggested a cyst in the adrenal region, complicated by hemorrhage and infection. However, after posterior laparoscopic surgery, pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of an EBC. The present case report highlights the importance of considering BCs as a potential diagnosis in cystic hemorrhagic lesions located in the retroperitoneum, thereby preventing misdiagnosis and providing valuable insight for clinical management.