Lymphocele in a cat.

A 21-month-old spayed domestic shorthair cat was examined to determine the cause of a chronic fluctuant swelling involving the left hind limb. A lymphocele was tentatively diagnosed on the basis of results of blood tests, radiography, and cytologic examination. Lymphangiography revealed the lymphocele and 2 tortuous collateral lymphatic channels. The lymphocele and a mass of fatty tissue were excised and 3 aberrant lymphatic vessels were ligated. Histologic examination did not reveal evidence of neoplasia. The cyst wall was composed of a layer of collagen and fibroblasts. The mass was an inflammatory nodule incorporating a lymphatic vessel. The authors believe this cat had an acquired lymphocele. The exact cause of lymphoceles is uncertain, but acquired lymphoceles have been reported secondary to tissue trauma or surgery in human beings. Treatment has included aspiration, tube drainage, open drainage and second-intention healing, surgical excision, ligation of lymphatic vessels, and chemical sclerosis of the cyst.