Favorable Outcome in a Fetus with an Early-Onset Extensive Cystic Hygroma Colli and Intralesional Hemorrhage

ABSTRACT

We present a rare occurrence of an early-onset extensive cystic hygroma colli with intralesional hemorrhage and a favorable outcome. A 23-year-old primigravida woman was referred for management of a left isolated extensive cystic hygroma colli at 22 weeks' gestation. Amniocentesis revealed a 46,XY karyotype. Ultrasound-guidance in utero paracentesis was performed weekly or fortnightly from 22 to 36 gestational weeks. The aspirated fluid was chocolate-colored and contained abundant lymphocytes, erythrocytes, and protein. Despite multiple aspirations, the fetal cystic hygroma colli increased in size from 5.2 × 4.2 cm at 22 weeks' gestation to 9 × 9.7 cm at 36 weeks' gestation. The woman underwent cesarean section at 36 week's gestation and a-2808 g neonate was born with a 10 × 6 cm left neck mass, which did not impair spontaneous normal respiration. At the age of 4 days, the neonate underwent simple excision of the cystic hygroma, which was confined to the anterior superficial neck. The neonate was discharged 4 days after operation in good condition. In the present case, in utero paracentesis did not prevent the progressive growth of an early-onset extensive cystic hygroma colli with intralesional hemorrhage. However, lack of extension of the lesion into the surrounding structures and successful postnatal surgery contributed to the favorable outcome of this patient.

Keywords

Cystic hygroma colli - intralesional hemorrhage - ultrasound - paracentesis