How is cystic hygroma diagnosed?

How is cystic hygroma diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a cystic hygroma occurs before your child reaches two years old. During pregnancy, a cystic hygroma diagnosis is possible with a routine prenatal ultrasound. A blood test to detect alpha-fetoprotein between 15 to 20 weeks helps confirm the diagnosis.

If prenatal tests suggest that your child has an abnormal number of chromosomes, your child may have a predisposition to cystic hygromas and your provider will carefully monitor the development of your fetus to make sure it is healthy.

After your baby is born, a physical examination of the cyst, along with an X-ray, ultrasound or an MRI will help your provider confirm the diagnosis and offer a treatment plan unique to your child’s condition.