cystic Hygroma

Cystic hygroma is a benign macrocystic lymphatic malformation arising from the failure of primitive lymphatic sacs to connect with the venous system, most commonly presenting as a painless, soft, transilluminating mass in the posterior triangle of the neck that is strongly associated with chromosomal abnormalities such as Turner syndrome and trisomies when detected prenatally. This condition is clinically significant because it can cause airway compromise, feeding difficulties, and cosmetic disfigurement, and its presence on antenatal ultrasound with findings like increased nuchal translucency or hydrops fetalis warrants chromosomal evaluation and may indicate poor fetal prognosis. Medical students should understand that management ranges from observation for small asymptomatic lesions to sclerotherapy or surgical excision for symptomatic cases, and that a multidisciplinary approach involving pediatrics, ENT, and pediatric surgery is essential for optimal outcomes.