A RARE CASE OF CERVICAL CYSTIC LYMPHANGIOMA IN AN ADULT PATIENT

Lymphangioma of the neck is a rare benign tumour arising from the cervical lymphatic vessels. Three morphological types are described: capillary, cavernous and cystic. Almost 90% of these lesions are diagnosed before the age of two years old and a small number of cases of lymphangiomas are reported in adult patients.We present the diagnostic and treatment approach of a cervical cystic lymphangioma (CL) in an adult male. Case presentation: An 85-year-old male was referred to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with a history of a left-sided neck mass. The mass has been present for the last 15 years, but its size had increased during the last three months. The main complaints were a rapid increase in size and mild hoarseness of voice. FNAC was performed and 48cc of bloody fluid were aspirated and CL was suggested as a possible diagnosis. The patient underwent complete surgical excision of the lesion with dissection and preservation of the vital anatomic structures. He remains asymptomatic 1 year later with no signs of recurrence. Conclusions: Although rare, CL should be included in the differential diagnosis of cervical masses. Diagnosis is based on medical history, US of the neck, MRI, CECT and FNAC. Total surgical excision of the mass is the treatment of choice. In our case, the patient was mainly asymptomatic except for mild hoarseness of voice. FNAC suggested the lymphovascular origin of the lesion and the MRI depicted a well-defined lobulated mass that mildly deviated the trachea. Total excision of the mass was accomplished. He remains asymptomatic 1 year later.