Cervical cystic lymphangioma in an adult: a rare entity

Abstract

Lymphangiomas are benign malformations of the lymphatic system, commonly arising from sequestered lymphatic vessels. While typically found in infancy or childhood, their occurrence in adults is rare. This case details a 44-year-old female with a progressively enlarging, painless neck mass. Imaging revealed a cystic lesion near major neck vessels. Fine-needle aspiration cytology initially suggested lymphocele, while ultrasonography and computed tomography angiography provided differential diagnoses, including lymphangioma. Surgical excision of the mass and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cavernous lymphangioma. Although benign, lymphangiomas can cause complications through invasion of surrounding structures, leading to mass effects or secondary infections. Definitive management is surgical excision, but thorough imaging and differential diagnosis are critical to ruling out other potential conditions, especially given the rarity of lymphangiomas in adulthood.