Cystic hygromas are multiloculated cystic structures that are benign in nature. They form as the result of budding lymphatics and, thus, may occur anywhere in the body, although they are most frequently encountered in the neck (75%) and axilla (20%). Cystic hygromas frequently abut and/or encompass neurovascular structures. Surgical excision remains the therapy of choice and usually is performed shortly after diagnosis

AGE -Most cystic hygromas are evident at birth (65%), with the remainder evident by the time the individual is aged 2 years. 

IMAGING –

  MRI- is the scanning modality of choice to evaluate the type of cystic component of the hygroma and its location. MRI often is required preoperatively to determine extent of invasion into adjacent structures and tumor involvement with neurovascular structures

MRI may help to elucidate the cystic hygroma\'s relationship with adjacent nerves and blood vessels, in addition to its invasion into local structures and the airway.

CT scan may be used alone or in combination with chest radiography and/or MRI to detect hilar involvement and relationship with adjacent tissues.

Medical complications include the following:

  Airway obstruction is the most critical complication of cystic hygroma occurring in the neck

 

  Hemorrhage

   Infection

 - Deformation of surrounding bony structures or teeth if left untreated

 

Complications from the surgical excision of a cystic hygroma include the following:

Damage to a neurovascular structure

Chylous fistula

Chylothorax

Hemorrhage