Cystic Hygroma of Wrist

A Amin,Ar Bhat,I Wani,R Malik,S Wani

doi:10.3126/jnps.v32i2.5465

Abstract

Cystic hygroma is the rare congenital lesion. This is a cystic variety of lymphangioma. Cystic hygroma arising outside of the cervicofacial, thoracic, and abdominal areas are extremely rare. Wrist is a very rare site for occurrence of cystic hygroma. Presentation depends on site of location of cystic hygroma. A case of cystic hygroma of wrist in a child is reported. This child presented with painless swelling of left wrist. Excision of cyst was done. This is first case report of literature reporting occurrence of cystic hygroma on wrist. J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2012;32(2):166-168 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v32i2.5465

Highlights

Cystic hygroma is a congenital lesion[1]
The cystic hygroma shows a predilection for the neck (75%) and maxilla (20%), and the remaining 5% arise in rare locations such as the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, bone, kidney, colon, liver, spleen and scrotum.[3]
Large cysts lying superficially and small cysts lying in deeper planes and these were containing clear crystal colored fluid (Fig 2).The swelling was adherent, so meticulous dissection was carried out to ensure avoidance of damage of surrounding vital structures and prevention of recurrence

Summary

Introduction

Cystic hygroma is a congenital lesion[1]. These are large painless soft cystic masses with dilatation of associated anatomic areas. Diagnosis is easy in pediatric age group but seldom presents de novo in adulthood. They develop from defective sequestration of lymphatic tissue from lymphatic sacs during the development of lymphatico-venous sacs[2]. A three years old boy presented with painless swelling of left wrist since birth (Fig[1]). Large cysts lying superficially and small cysts lying in deeper planes and these were containing clear crystal colored fluid (Fig 2).The swelling was adherent, so meticulous dissection was carried out to ensure avoidance of damage of surrounding vital structures and prevention of recurrence. Histopatholgical examination of specimen was consistent with the diagnosis of cystic hygroma (Fig 3)

Discussion

Conclusion

Findings

Goetsch E