Cystic hygroma

[bobbym73]

is the desease cystic hygroma can reoccur? what are the treatments to overcome with it completely? what are the ancipated fear while doing treatment of cyst occur behind ear?


This discussion is related to Cystic Hygroma.

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi,

A cystic hygroma is a sac-like structure with a thin wall that most commonly occurs in the head and neck area. This is a birth defect. It occurs as the baby grows in the uterus from the embryonic lymphatic tissue. It usually looks like a soft bulge under the skin and sometimes is not noticed until the person is older or after an upper respiratory tract infection.

Treatment involves complete removal of the abnormal tissue whenever possible. However, cystic hygromas can often invade other neck structures, making this impossible. Sometimes the following may be done but it is not as successful as removal: chemotherapy medications, injection of sclerosing medications, radiation therapy or steroids. Discuss which treatment is best for you with your doctor. A complete medical history and physical examination are important in assessing the outcome. The outlook is good if surgery can totally remove the abnormal tissue. In cases where complete removal is not possible, the cystic hygroma commonly returns. This link may be helpful: http://www.emedicine.com/PED/topic536.htm

Take care and keep us posted