Abstract
RATIONALE: Bronchogenic cysts (BCs) are rare congenital anomalies that often present without distinct clinical symptoms, complicating their diagnosis. However, as these cysts enlarge, they can cause symptoms due to compression of adjacent tissues and organs. In February 2024, a 32-year-old male was admitted to the Central Hospital of Suining City, Sichuan Province, China, with a preliminary diagnosis of a "gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumor." A thorough pathological evaluation ultimately confirmed the diagnosis as a BC. The cyst was successfully excised through surgical intervention. PATIENT CONCERNS: The patient reported experiencing discomfort in the left upper abdomen for over a year. DIAGNOSIS: On January 2, 2024, surgery was performed under general anesthesia. Intraoperative exploration revealed no metastatic tumors in the pelvis, mesentery, or liver. A tumor measuring approximately 5 cm by 6 cm was identified on the lesser curvature of the cardia, with firm consistency and clear resection margins. No perigastric lymph node enlargement was observed. A proximal gastric resection was performed, and postoperative pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a BC. INTERVENTIONS: Postoperative care included anti-infective therapy, nutritional support, and acid-suppressive rehydration therapy. OUTCOMES: The patient, a young male with no prior medical conditions, recovered well without wound infections and was discharged successfully. Follow-up assessments have shown sustained positive health outcomes. LESSON: BCs are rare, particularly at the gastroesophageal junction, and are often misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors. Accurate differentiation is crucial, and surgical excision remains the most effective treatment.