Cystic hygroma

Definition

A cystic hygroma is a sac-like structure with a thin wall that most commonly occurs in the head and neck area.

Alternative Names

lymphangioma

Causes

A cystic hygroma is a birth defect. It occurs as the baby grows in the womb from pieces of material that carries fluid and white blood cells (embryonic lymphatic tissue). After birth, a cystic hygroma usually looks like a soft bulge under the skin. The cyst can't be seen until after birth, and sometimes is not noticed until the person is older.

Symptoms

A common symptom is a neck mass noted at birth, or discovered later in an infant after an upper respiratory tract infection.

Exams and Tests

• Chest x-ray
• Ultrasound
• CT scan

Treatment

Treatment involves complete removal of the abnormal tissue whenever possible. However, cystic hygromas can often invade other neck structures, making this impossible. In these cases, other treatments have been attempted with only limited success. These include injection of sclerosing agents, steroids, chemotherapy agents, and radiation therapy.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook is good if surgery can totally remove the abnormal tissue. In cases where complete removal is not possible because of involvement of neighboring nerves or blood vessels, recurrence is common.

Possible Complications

Bleeding, infection, recurrence of the cystic hygroma, and damage to structures in the neck caused by surgery.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If you notice a lump in your neck or your child's neck, call your doctor.