What is cystic lymphangioma?

Summary. Abdominal cystic lymphangioma is a benign (noncancerous) malformation of the lymphatic vessels in the abdomen. These vessels carry lymph, a fluid that contains white blood cells that fight infection, throughout the body. The severity of the condition and the associated features vary from person to person.

How is cystic lymphangioma treated?

The preferred treatment for lymphangiomas is complete surgical excision. On the basis of the Whimster hypothesis, the large subcutaneous cisterns should be removed to prevent the lesion from resurfacing. Local recurrences are common in lymphangiomas.

Is cystic hygroma the same as lymphangioma?

Cystic hygromas are the cystic variety of lymphangioma, common locations being cervico-facial regions and axilla. Respiratory distress, recurrent infections or cosmetic reasons are the main indications of the treatment.

How is lymphangioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing lymphangioma The diagnosis of lymphangiomas can be made before birth if an ultrasound exam picks up on the abnormality. If a doctor notices one after birth, they may order an MRI scan, CT scan, or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis, and evaluate the size and impact.

What causes cystic lymphangioma?

What causes cystic hygroma? The exact cause of a cystic hygroma is unknown. The cyst forms as a result of damage to the lymphatic system during fetal development, or as a result of physical trauma or respiratory infection in cases that affect adults.

How can I contact the doctor for cystic lymphangioma (CL)?

Correspondence address. U.O.S. Maxillofacial Surgery, S. Andrea Hospital, via San Godenzo 16, Rome 00189, Italy. Tel: 3473749474; Fax: Cystic lymphangioma (CL) in adult is a very rare pathology.

What is a cystic lymphangioma?

The cystic form is the most common variety. Histologically, lymphangiomas are composed of an increased number of dilated lymphatic channels that are lined by endothelium. The cystic spaces are filled with proteinaceous lymph fluid (without erythrocytes).

What is the role of MR imaging in the diagnosis of cystic lymphangiomatosis?

CONCLUSION. MR imaging and CT may substantially broaden visualization of the spectrum of abnormalities seen in generalized cystic lymphangiomatosis by revealing the complete extent of disease and, thus, may contribute to clinical management of the disease by preventing initial misdiagnosis.

What does an unenhanced CT scan show in cystic lymphangiomatosis?

Unenhanced CT scan shows bilateral pleural effusions (large arrowheads), left-sided interstitial thickening with interstitial nodules (arrows), and lytic vertebral bone lesion (small arrowhead). Fig. 3B —4-year-old-boy with generalized cystic lymphangiomatosis.