A review of the management of lymphangiomas.

INTRODUCTION

Lymphangioma is a rare benign cyst caused by congenital malformation of the lymphatic systems that often occurs in the cervicofacial region. There is no consensus on its management: Observation, aspiration, injection, cryotherapy, electrocautery, radiation, laser, ligation and excision.

METHODS

We performed a literature search with the keywords "cystic hygroma", "lymphangioma", "management", "OK 432" and "picibanil" from Medline, Embase and PubMed databases.

RESULTS

We present a review of the history, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, histology, classification and management options of cystic hygroma.

CONCLUSION

There is no consensus on the treatment options. It should be individualised depending on the size of the lesion, anatomic localisation and complications.