Cystic hygroma is part of a group of diseases called lymphatic malformations. A cystic hygroma is a form of birth defect and it can be found either post- or prenatally. In the United States, it affects one in every six-thousand children. The words cystic hygroma means “moist tumor” and it can be described as a structure that resembles a thin-walled sac. It is usually found in the head or neck and it is more common in females than males.
A cystic hygroma generally develops as the baby matures in the mother’s womb; however, it can appear at any time during a person’s life, as well. The cyst can form because of an irregularity in the lymphatic system. It is also believed to form from the abnormal gathering of embryonic lymphatic tissue, which carries white blood cells and fluid. Other causes include environmental factors, such as a maternal infection of Fifth’s disease, maternal drug or alcohol abuse, and one of several other birth defects.
The symptoms of cystic hygroma are straightforward. There is usually a mass, bulge, or lump at the head or neck region. It can be discovered by ultrasound, at birth, or even much later in the child’s life. Sometimes, a respiratory tract infection may lead a physician to discover the disease. A cystic hygroma found prenatally, can mean that it will resolve with time – even before birth; however, it can lead to other birth defects, such as a webbed neck.
To test for a cystic hygroma, an ultrasound, x-ray, or computed tomography (CT) scan can be performed. They will indicate whether an abnormality exists. Because it is safe for both the mother and baby, an ultrasound is best for determining if a defect exists during pregnancy. However, the position of the baby and other factors can make diagnosis challenging. It is also easy for a cyst to be confused for amniotic fluid,. In addition, amniocentesis can be done to test for any chromosomal defects that are associated with cystic hygroma.
If a cystic hygroma is discover, treatment is available. In most cases, it involves the removal of the abnormality. Unfortunately, the location of the hygroma may make removal impossible, especially if it is close to the neck bones. Consequently, other less successful treatments have been used. These include chemotherapy drugs, radiation therapy, and steroids. If complete removal cannot occur, it is highly likely that the cystic hygroma will return.
