Uncommon presentation of retroperitoneal angiomyxoma: A case study of gluteal swelling

Abstract

Angiomyxoma is a rare mesenchymal tumor characterized by a myxoid stroma containing varying degrees of vascular components. While it commonly occurs in the pelvic region, it can also be found in the retroperitoneum, which poses diagnostic challenges. In this case, a general practitioner initially suspected an abscess, as retroperitoneal angiomyxomas often present as asymptomatic masses, sometimes causing discomfort or abdominal fullness due to compression of surrounding structures. This report describes a case of retroperitoneal angiomyxoma presenting as a gluteal abscess in a 46-year-old single female. She noticed the swelling 2 weeks before presenting to her general practitioner. While she experienced some discomfort, there were no significant systemic symptoms. An ultrasound and subsequent imaging, including a computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis, revealed an unusual mass in the retroperitoneum. The tumor appeared as well-defined, lobulated masses with a heterogeneous signal, reflecting its myxoid and vascular components.