Adult-Onset Cystic Lymphangioma of the Submandibular Region: A Rare Clinical Entity and Surgical Management


Authors : Dr. Yashashri Deshmukh; Dr. Uma Mahindra; Dr. Deepak Motwani

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 1 - January


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/49wehbuy

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4jh322pd

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jan939

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : Cystic lymphangiomas are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system that predominantly arise in infancy. Adult-onset presentation in the submandibular region is exceedingly rare and may clinically mimic a spectrum of salivary, vascular, and soft-tissue lesions, complicating diagnostic accuracy. We report the case of a 34-year-old female who presented with a gradually enlarging right submandibular swelling of four months’ duration. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a multiloculated cystic lesion suggestive of a lymphatic malformation, and cytology yielded proteinaceous fluid with mature lymphocytes. Complete surgical excision was performed, and histopathology confirmed cystic lymphangioma. The postoperative course was uneventful, with no recurrence noted at early follow-up. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of atypical adult presentations and emphasizes the role of imaging and histopathology in definitive diagnosis, as well as the importance of complete surgical excision for preventing recurrence.

Keywords : Lymphangioma, Cystic Hygroma, Submandibular Swelling, Lymphatic Malformation, Adult Onset, Case Report.

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Cystic lymphangiomas are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system that predominantly arise in infancy. Adult-onset presentation in the submandibular region is exceedingly rare and may clinically mimic a spectrum of salivary, vascular, and soft-tissue lesions, complicating diagnostic accuracy. We report the case of a 34-year-old female who presented with a gradually enlarging right submandibular swelling of four months’ duration. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a multiloculated cystic lesion suggestive of a lymphatic malformation, and cytology yielded proteinaceous fluid with mature lymphocytes. Complete surgical excision was performed, and histopathology confirmed cystic lymphangioma. The postoperative course was uneventful, with no recurrence noted at early follow-up. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of atypical adult presentations and emphasizes the role of imaging and histopathology in definitive diagnosis, as well as the importance of complete surgical excision for preventing recurrence.

Keywords : Lymphangioma, Cystic Hygroma, Submandibular Swelling, Lymphatic Malformation, Adult Onset, Case Report.

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