Lymphangioma circumscriptum is a mouthful to spell! This medical term refers to a type of benign tumor that affects the lymphatic vessels. The word breaks down like this: "lymph" (pronounced /lɪmf/), which refers to the clear fluid in the lymphatic vessels; "angioma" (/ænˌdʒaɪˈoʊmə/), meaning a tumor of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels; and finally, "circumscriptum" (/sɜːrkəmˈskrɪptəm/), which means confined to a particular area. Put it all together and you have lymphangioma circumscriptum!
Lymphangioma circumscriptum is a rare, benign vascular malformation that affects the lymphatic system. It is characterized by the development of multiple small cysts or vesicles filled with lymphatic fluid. These abnormalities usually occur in the skin and mucous membranes, but they can also affect other organs such as the lungs, intestines, or liver, although this is less common.
The exact cause of lymphangioma circumscriptum is not well understood, but it is believed to be a result of abnormal development of the lymphatic vessels during fetal development. It is often present at birth or manifests in infancy and tends to persist throughout a person's lifetime, although the size and severity of the condition may vary.
Clinically, lymphangioma circumscriptum appears as small, fluid-filled vesicles or cysts that are translucent and can range in color from pink to red or even purple. These vesicles are usually grouped together, forming clusters or patches that may occur anywhere on the body. In some cases, the affected areas may become swollen or develop into larger masses.
While lymphangioma circumscriptum is generally not a life-threatening condition, it can cause discomfort or functional impairment, particularly if it occurs in areas such as the mouth or genital region. Treatment options for lymphangioma circumscriptum include surgical excision, laser therapy, sclerotherapy (injection of a sclerosing agent), or medications to manage symptoms. However, due to the nature of the condition, complete eradication is often difficult, and the goal of treatment is usually to improve symptoms and appearance.
L. superficium, l. capillare varicosum, a localized new formation and dilatation of the cutaneous lymphatics.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "lymphangioma circumscriptum" has a Latin and Greek etymology.
1. Lymphangioma:
- "Lympho-" is derived from the Greek word "lymphos", meaning "clear water" or "pure water", which later came to refer to the colorless fluid in the lymphatic system.
- "-angioma" combines the Greek words "angeion", meaning "vessel", and "-oma", which denotes a growth or tumor.
Therefore, "lymphangioma" refers to a tumor or abnormal growth that affects the lymphatic vessels.
2. Circumscriptum:
- "Circum-" is derived from the Latin word "circum", meaning "around" or "enclosing".
- "-scriptum" comes from the Latin word "scriptus", meaning "written" or "drawn".