Lymphangioma cysticum is a medical term used to describe a benign vascular malformation which forms cystic growths in soft tissue. The word lymphangioma is derived from the Greek words "lympha," meaning water, and "angioma," meaning a tumor made up of blood or lymph vessels. The spelling of lymphangioma cysticum is accurately represented in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /lɪmˌfændʒiˈoʊmə sɪsˈtɪkəm/ to ensure correct pronunciation and understanding of the term. This spelling reflects the word's complex and technical roots, which make it a challenge to spell and pronounce for many individuals outside the medical field.
Lymphangioma cysticum is a rare benign tumor or abnormal growth that affects the lymphatic vessels in the body. It is characterized by the formation of cysts or fluid-filled sacs that typically develop within the lymphatic system. These cysts can vary in size and number, ranging from small individual sacs to larger clusters.
Lymphangiomas can occur anywhere in the body, but are commonly found in the neck and oral cavity. They can also be found in other areas like the armpit, groin, or within organs such as the lungs or intestines. Lymphangioma cysticum is often present at or shortly after birth; however, it may also develop later in life.
The exact cause of lymphangioma cysticum is unclear, but it is believed to arise from abnormalities in the development of the lymphatic system during fetal development. These abnormalities result in the formation of enlarged or damaged lymphatic vessels, which leads to the accumulation of lymph fluid and subsequent cyst formation.
Symptoms of lymphangioma cysticum can vary depending on the size and location of the cysts. Common signs include swelling, pain, and a visible or palpable mass. In some cases, the cysts may become infected or cause complications by compressing nearby structures such as nerves or blood vessels.
Treatment options for lymphangioma cysticum include observation, surgical removal of the cysts, or other interventions like sclerotherapy (injection of a medication to shrink the cysts) or laser therapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the size, location, and potential complications associated with the cysts. As lymphangioma cysticum is a complex medical condition, consultation with a specialist such as a pediatric surgeon or dermatologist is often necessary for appropriate management.
Cystic lymphangiectasia, a condition marked by the occurrence of multiple cysts, filled with lymph.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lymphangioma cysticum" is derived from the combination of two medical terms: "lymphangioma" and "cysticum".
The term "lymphangioma" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Lympho-" comes from the Greek word "lympha", meaning "clear fluid" or "pure water". It is related to the lymphatic system, which consists of vessels and nodes that transport lymph, a clear fluid that plays a vital role in the immune system.
2. "-Angioma" is derived from the Greek word "angeion", meaning "vessel" or "container". In medical terminology, "-angioma" is used to describe a benign tumor or abnormal growth that forms from the blood or lymph vessels.
Therefore, "lymphangioma" refers to a benign tumor or abnormal growth that originates from the lymph vessels.