title: Surgical management of adult-onset cystic hygroma in the axilla.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Lymphatic malformations are commonly recognized as relatively benign congenital masses affecting infants and children in the perinatal period. In children, these masses are most commonly found in the neck, and are occasionally seen in other areas of the body.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 58-year-old man presented with an acute axillary swelling measuring approximately 20cm in length, 12cm in AP width, and 7cm in depth. Biopsy and cytology analysis demonstrated this mass to be a cystic hygroma of adult-onset.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Given its multi-loculated nature and size, it was surgically excised and one year later the patient is without evidence of recurrence.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  As the incidence of adult-onset cystic hygroma is rare, the nature and reporting of their management is limited. This case report contributes to the body of literature which serves to elucidate the optimal management of this perinatal condition in adults.
authors.affiliation: Togus VA Medical Center, Augusta, ME, United States. Electronic address: fmerchant@une.edu.
authors.forename: Francesca
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: McCaffrey
authors.affiliation: Central Maine Surgical Associates, 12 High Street Suite 401, Lewiston, ME 04240, United States. Electronic address: joemoves@yahoo.com.
authors.forename: Joseph
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Taddeo
keywords: Axillary mass; Cystic hygroma; Lymphangioma; Lymphatic malformation