Lymphatic Malformations

Abstract

Lymphatic malformations describe a broad range of lymphatic lesions, including common cystic lymphatic lesions, lymphangiomatoses, lymphangiectasias, and lymphedema. Cystic lymphatic malformations are congenital lesions that result in a complex of multiple cysts lined with lymphatic vascular endothelium. The incidence is estimated at 1 in 5000 live births. Lymphatic malformations have been reported in almost every type of tissue in the body with the notable exception of the central nervous system. Most are found in areas rich in lymphatic channels, including the head, neck, and axillary regions. Traditionally, vascular malformations involving the lymphatic vessels have been called by a variety of terms, including cystic hygroma, lymphangioma, or hemangiolymphangioma. Given the benign nature of these anomalies and their wide-ranging manifestations, the preferred all-encompassing term is “lymphatic malformations.”