What are the symptoms of a cystic hygroma?

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What are the symptoms of a cystic hygroma?

Symptoms of a cystic hygroma vary based on the size and location of the fluid-filled sac (cyst). Symptoms could include:

  • A bulge under the skin.
  • Skin over the cyst has a blue tint.
  • The cyst is soft.
  • The cyst most often appears on the neck, but it can form anywhere on the body.
  • Size ranges from a grape to grapefruit and could increase in size as the baby grows.

Severe symptoms of a cystic hygroma include:

  • Physically disfigure part of the body.
  • Bone or organ damage.
  • Feeding difficulties.
  • Difficulty breathing (airway obstruction).
  • Hemorrhage.
  • Infection.

If a cystic hygroma is present during pregnancy, there is a risk of miscarriage or stillbirth due to complications from the cyst affecting how the fetus develops and grows. The cyst could create an excess amount of fluid in the fetus’ body (hydrops), which could cause early death.

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