[Lymphangiomum cysticum congenitum of the left half of the face in a newborn infant].

In a mature dystrophic newborn a huge tumor of the face was evident. The left eye could not be seen, the left choana was obstructed, the left angle of the mouth was pushed caudally. Sonographically cystic and solid areas could be found. The cranial computer tomography showed normal intracerebral structures but some evidence of infiltration into the frontal brain. The left ocula was widened and the left eye was found within the tumor mass. Angiographically an abnormal vascularisation of the tumor could not be seen. In spite of corticoid therapy a rapid growth led to life-threatening obstruction of the airways. At the age of 6 weeks the tumor was totally extirpated. A small piece of dura mater was replaced by periost. The wound could not be closed. Histologically the diagnosis of lymphangioma cysticum congenitum was made and increased growth tendency were found. Four weeks postoperatively the baby was discharged. Several cosmetic operations with unpredictable results will be necessary. A close psychologic guidance is recommended. Localisation, size, and life-threatening growth of a benign lymphangiomum are very uncommon.