Cystic hygroma in a tactical aviator: a case report

Cystic hygroma of the neck is a benign, congenital tumor of lymphatic origin rarely seen in adults, with approximately 100 cases presented in the literature. The etiology of this lesion is poorly understood, with spontaneous occurrence, upper respiratory infection, or trivial trauma being suggested. We present a recent unique case report of an adult male tactical aviator who experienced a progressively enlarging cystic hygroma of the neck over a 2-week period without history of infection or obvious trauma. This case is unusual in that there may have been an element of continuous microtrauma to the area given the individual's occupation and required flight head gear. A successful surgical dissection and removal of the cystic hygroma was performed. A discussion and brief literature review of cystic hygroma in adulthood is presented.