# Canal of Nuck cyst in adulthood: A rare differential for inguinal masses – A case report

## TL;DR

A rare case of a Canal of Nuck cyst in an adult woman is reported, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to avoid complications.

## Contribution

This case report emphasizes the importance of considering Canal of Nuck cysts in adult females with inguinal masses.

## Key findings

- Canal of Nuck cysts can present as inguinal masses in adult females and are often misdiagnosed.
- Ultrasound and MRI are effective for diagnosing Canal of Nuck cysts.
- Surgical excision with histopathological confirmation is the definitive treatment.

## Abstract

Canal of Nuck defects are rare anomalies of the female genitalia, typically diagnosed in childhood, but may present in adulthood as inguinal masses. These defects result from the incomplete obliteration of the canal of Nuck, which is analogous to the male processus vaginalis, leading to cyst formation or herniation of intra-abdominal contents. The condition is often misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific presentation.

We present a case of a patient with a Nuck canal cyst, initially misdiagnosed as a lipoma. She presented with right groin pain and a palpable mass, which was confirmed to be a canal of Nuck cyst via ultrasound. Surgical excision was performed, followed by histopathological confirmation.

This case highlights the importance of considering canal of Nuck defects in the differential diagnosis of inguinal masses in adult females, given the potential for misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. Imaging plays a key role in diagnosis, aiding in distinguishing this condition from other inguinal masses. Early surgical intervention offers favorable outcomes and prevents complications.

Canal of Nuck cysts, although rare, should be included in the differential diagnosis of inguinal masses in adult females. Accurate imaging and timely surgical excision are essential for effective management and positive patient outcomes.

•Canal of Nuck cysts are rare and often misdiagnosed inguinal masses in adult females.•Canal of Nuck cysts often presents with groin pain and a palpable mass•Ultrasound and MRI are key imaging modalities for accurate diagnosis.•Definitive treatment is surgical excision with histopathological confirmation.•Misdiagnosis can delay treatment and increase morbidity.

Canal of Nuck cysts are rare and often misdiagnosed inguinal masses in adult females.

Canal of Nuck cysts often presents with groin pain and a palpable mass

Ultrasound and MRI are key imaging modalities for accurate diagnosis.

Definitive treatment is surgical excision with histopathological confirmation.

Misdiagnosis can delay treatment and increase morbidity.