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Spontaneous cervical lymphocoele: case reports and management decisions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 August 2009

F D L Walker
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
F B MacGregor*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
I Ganly
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, St Johns Hospital, Livingston, Scotland, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Ms Fiona MacGregor, Department of Otolaryngology, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, UK. Fax: 0141 211 1671 E-mail: Fiona.MacGregor@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

Abstract

Introduction:

Neck lumps in young adults are not uncommon, and most represent benign, reactive lymphadenopathy. Cystic swellings are less common. Spontaneous cervical lymphocoeles are very rare, and present as fluctuant, asymptomatic, cystic swellings in the neck in otherwise fit individuals.

Case reports:

We report two healthy young women who presented with spontaneous cervical lymphocoeles and who were treated successfully with surgical excision. The timing of surgical intervention was influenced in both cases by their imminent wedding celebrations.

Conclusions:

Whilst sclerotherapy has been advocated by some authors, we found it unhelpful; however, surgery provided definitive treatment.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2009

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