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Review
. 2023 Oct;192(5):2373-2377.
doi: 10.1007/s11845-022-03271-9. Epub 2023 Jan 16.

Cystic hygroma in adults: a single-centre experience and review of the literature

Niall James McInerney  1 , Nick O'Keeffe  2 , Andreea Nae  2 , Juliana Morariu  2 , Con Timon  2   3
Affiliations
Review

Cystic hygroma in adults: a single-centre experience and review of the literature

Niall James McInerney et al. Ir J Med Sci. 2023 Oct.

Abstract

Cystic hygroma (CH) is a benign congenital lymphatic malformation, occurring predominantly in children, typically as an asymptomatic neck mass. Surgical resection or sclerotherapy is the recommended treatment options. A retrospective review of four cases of adult-onset CH was performed over 2 years by a single surgeon across two institutions. Four patients (two females, median age 31.5 years) who presented with supraclavicular neck masses (range 5-17 cm) are discussed. Ultrasound and MRI demonstrated supraclavicular masses, suggestive of CH. All patients underwent surgical resection. Post-operative courses were uncomplicated, with a mean length of stay of 4 days. All histological samples returned as CH. As of yet, there are no guidelines on the management of CH. Individualised care tailored to each patient, following careful discussion is the most prudent approach. This study demonstrates that surgical resection is a safe and effective treatment for adults in this rarely encountered clinical entity.

Keywords: Cystic hygroma; Lymphangioma.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
A Pre-operative assessment with large right supra-clavicular mass seen. B Demonstration of transillumination. C Right transverse cervical incision, measuring 15 cm. D Gross specimen with cuff of skin attached. E Wound review three weeks post-operatively
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
MRI axial and coronal slices demonstrating a large well-circumscribed right cystic mass, postero-lateral to the sternocleidomastoid, and in close proximity to the carotid trunk
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
A Marking of planned elliptical transverse cervical incision, with the borders of the mass marked. B Operative closure with drain in situ
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Coronal and axial contrast CT images, demonstrating a homogenous cystic lesion in the left supraclavicular region, in close relationship to the head and neck vasculature
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
A Marking of planned transverse cervical incision, with the borders of the mass marked, and clavicle marker inferiorly. B Intra-operative visualisation of large cystic mass dissected free from surrounding structures. C Post-removal of the cystic mass
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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