Infections of congenital cervical neck masses associated with bacteremia

Congenital cervical neck masses are usually benign lesions. However, cystic hygromas and cervical teratomas are associated with a high risk for potentially life-threatening complications, primarily that of respiratory distress secondary to tracheal compression. Children with unoperated teratomas are also at high risk for malignant changes. A third potential complication is that of infection of the lesion. We present two newborns with infections of cervical neck masses associated with bacteremia. One lesion was a teratoma, the other a cystic hygroma. In both infants, surgical excision had been delayed. These cases illustrate the need for prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment of congenital cervical neck masses.