Genetic Diseases: Cystic hygroma

Introduction

A Cystic hygroma is a fluid-filled sacs which occurs due to blockage in the Lymphatic system. It mostly occurs in the neck and head area, but it can be found anywhere in the body. It may be found in a baby during a pregnancy ultrasound, or it may be clear at birth as a delicate bulge beneath the skin. Cystic hygromas influence 1 in 800 pregnancies and 1 in 8,000 live births. In 80% of cases, cystic hygromas show up on the face, counting the head, neck, mouth, cheek, or tongue. The growths may also occur in other parts of the body; i.e. armpits, chest, legs, chest, buttocks, and groin.

When it is distinguished on pregnancy ultrasound, there's an increased chance for miscarriage. In some cases, it isn't found until a person is older. Indications can change depending on its size and the particular area, and it can possibly cause issues with adjacent structures or organs.

Cystic hygromas usually influence children, but there have been uncommon cases of them showing up in adulthood.

Causes

The Cystic hygromas are caused due to environmental and genetic factors both. The exact cause of cystic hygromas isn't known but hereditary anomalies are present in around 25% to 75% of influenced children. The disease is more common in people with Turner syndrome, Down syndrome, or Klinefelter syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on the area of the cysts. A few children may not encounter any indications other than the growth.

If a child has symptoms, they may include:

·         fluid-filled sacs on the tongue

·         large cysts that appear blue

·         obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes breathing to stop and start

·         breathing and feeding difficulties

·         failure to thrive

·         bone and teeth abnormalities

In rare cases, the hygromas may bleed or become infected.