Understanding Lymphatic malformation: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Lymphatic malformation

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - LM

General

Lymphatic malformation is an abnormal collection of lymphatic fluid within cysts or channels, usually in the soft tissue. It results from errors in development of the lymphatic tissue, usually confined to one area of the body. Lymphatic malformations (also called lymphangiomas) occur everywhere in the body, except for the brain. They are often classified according to the size of the fluid-containing components.

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Signs & symptoms

LMs typically produce localized swelling and enlargement of the affected areas, but they do not involve the skin. These often present at birth and increase in proportion with growth of the individual. Occasionally, they can expand suddenly due to either infection or bleeding into the cysts. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the LM. Those involving the mouth can interfere with breathing and speech, while those in the arms in legs cause swelling and heaviness.

Diagnosis

LMs can often be diagnosed by clinical examination, especially if the skin is involved with vesicles or small blister-like raised areas. The involved skin is sometimes red or purple, like a port wine stain. A deep LM usually causes enlargement of the soft tissues that are affected. Sometimes, the neighboring veins are also enlarged. A magnetic resonance imaging scan is the most helpful diagnostic test to show the extent of the malformation and the number and size of the cysts. For an LM that is near the skin surface, ultrasonography also shows the cysts.

Treatment

Treatment for simple macrocystic LMs is typically effective and the conditions rarely recur. Combined lymphatic, containing large and small cysts, are more difficult to treat. Any residual cysts can recur. Microcystic LM’s cannot be cured and may require ongoing treatment for swelling. We typically treat LMs very early in life to avoid or diminish skeletal deformities. For macrocystic LMs, we perform either sclerotherapy or surgical removal. Microcystic LMs, especially those with no visible cysts, are more difficult to treat and generally require surgical removal or contouring.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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