Computed tomography of cervical cystic hygroma in the neck

Abstract

The computed tomography findings in 4 infants and children with surgically proved cystic hygroma of the neck were reviewed and correlated with pathologic specimens. Cervical cystic hygroma characteristically appears on CT scan as a multiloculated cystic mass with smooth septa of variable thickness, which enhances uniformly following bolus injection of contrast media administration. This CT pattern can usually be used to differentiate cystic hygromas from other cervical masses such as soft tissue sarcomas. CT is also helpful in determining the extent of the lesion prior to the surgery and in assessing the recurrences.