Unilateral Lower Limb Swelling Secondary to Cavernous Lymphangioma.

Unilateral Lower Limb Swelling Secondary to Cavernous Lymphangioma.
Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2007 Oct 25

Bains SK, London NJ.
Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK.

INTRODUCTION:

We report an unusual case of unilateral leg swelling secondary to cavernous lymphangioma (cystic hygroma), which normally affects the head and neck regions.

CASE REPORT:

A 25 year gentleman presented to our department with a 13-year history of gradually increasing unilateral leg swelling and recurrent infections. Investigations showed appearances consistent with cavernous lymphangioma, and partial excision of the lesion led to resolution of symptoms.

DISCUSSION:

The most common sites for cystic hygroma are the head and neck areas, but the extremities can be affected as demonstrated. Complete surgical excision is often difficult, and there is a tendency for recurrence. This case acts as an illustration of an uncommon yet important cause for unilateral leg swelling.

Elsevier