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Tumors: Cystic Hygromas
A cystic hygroma, also referred to as lymphangioma, is a lesion that appears as a bulge under the skin. Typically, a cystic hygroma is not painful or noticeable until it has become large enough to push against the exterior skin. Most cystic hygromas are evident at birth or present themselves by the time a child is two years old. Incidence of lymphangioma is estimated at around one per 10,000 live births. (Lymphangiomas may also be acquired as a result of trauma, surgery, inflammation or obstruction of lymphatic drainage.)
These lesions most commonly (about 75% of the time) occur in the head and neck regions, although they can arise elsewhere. Frequently, they are located in the back of the neck on the left side. They are benign.
First described in 1843 by Adolph Wernher, cystic hygroma (or cystic lymphangioma) is also known as macrocystic lymphatic malformation (first described in 1828). Wernher derived the name, cystic hygroma, from the Greek words hygroth (fluid) and oma (tumor).
Treatment involves complete removal of the affected tissue, if possible. Depending on the location of the growth, most often we advise removal and structural restoration for function and appearance of affected areas.