Lymphangioma circumscriptum: treatment with hypertonic saline sclerotherapy

Abstract

A 38-year-old woman came for treatment of multiple clear vesicles and hemorrhagic papules on the posterior aspect of the right shoulder and the right axillary vault of 5 years' duration. These lesions would spontaneously manifest as clear or blood-filled vesicles (or both) and appear to be exacerbated by physical contact from certain articles of clothing. A biopsy was done and the results revealed lymphangioma circumscriptum. The purpose of this case study was to evaluate a new form of treatment of lymphangioma circumscriptum with the use of 23.4% hypertonic saline sclerotherapy. The patient's lymphangioma circumscriptum significantly resolved with minimal side effects, such as mild hyperpigmentation. Decreased sensitivity was noted and no further treatment was indicated. This case showed that hypertonic saline 23.4% solution can be effective in treating the appearance of vesicles containing clear fluid or lymph and those containing red blood cells in superficial lymphangiomas and that this treatment can be considered for long-term management of lymphangioma circumscriptum.