This is a congenital lesion comprised of lymph-filled spaces which arise from an embryonic remnant of the jugular lymph sac. It is not a true cyst but rather a lymphatic hamartoma which forms multilocular cyst-like spaces.
Features of cystic hygroma (1):
- can result in a multicystic mass which infiltrates tissue planes - a cystic hygroma has no tendency to spontaneous resolution
- the majority (over 60%) are found in the neck region - other sites of origin may include the chest wall and axilla
- cystic hygroma are invariably present at birth, smaller masses may be missed and present later in childhood as an expanding lump
- the cysts contain clear fluid (Greek, hygros--moist) - cystic hygroma should brilliantly transilluminate
- secondary infection is of cystic hygroma is a possible complication.
- antenatal diagnosis by ultrasonography is possible for larger cystic hygroma
- affected infants should be delivered in a centre capable of expert endotracheal intubation because some masses displace and infiltrate the pharynx and larynx, thus compromising breathing
- cystic hygromas are also a rare cause of an obstructed labour - in some cases cystic hygroma may be a cause for an elective caesarian section
Click here for an example image of this condition
Reference:
- BMJ 1996;312:368-371