Cervical Cystic Hygroma

Cystic hygroma or cystic lymphangioma is a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system that manifests itself as a soft, benign, and painless mass. It is widely accepted that they arise from the remnants of embryonic lymphatic tissue which retains the potential for proliferation. They grow in the fashion of sprouting and are capable of transgressing anatomical boundaries. They can occur almost at any anatomical site. However, 75–80% cystic hygromas are located in the head and neck region. In the neck, they are typically located within the posterior cervical triangle. The majority of cases (80–90%) are diagnosed under the age of two. We present a case of cervical cystic hygroma in a 6 year old male child which was surgically treated. © 2011, Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India.