Back to leedsth.nhs.ukLeeds Fetal Medicine Unit Website
Cystic Hygroma
Definition |
Multiple cysts at the side and back of the fetal neck |
| Incidence | 1:600 second trimester pregnancies |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound appearances of fluid filled cysts around neck containing thin septae (lines). Fetus may be hydropic at presentation |
| Gestation at diagnosis | 12 weeks onwards |
| Known chromosomal or genetic association | Yes, associated with chromosomal problems (Turners syndrome (XO), and trisomies 21, 18, and 13). Also associated with genetic syndromes, Noonans, Aperts and Multiple Pterygia |
| Further investigations | Karyotype. |
| Differential Diaganosis | Increased nuchal fold Lyphangioma Occipital Encephalocele |
| Prognosis | Most pregnancies will miscarry, remainder have likely to have some significant abnormality (eg cardiac abnormality). ~10% survive without major morbidity. |
| Recurrance risk | If due to Turners syndrome very low. Other syndrome causes may be higher |
| Research Studies | None |
Further information for clinicians please click here
Patient information leaflet please click here
Links
If you have techinical problems with this website please contact webmaster@leedsth.nhs.uk.