This series and literature review aimed to prenatally characterize the nature of axillary lymphangioma. A total of 30 cases, including our 5 cases, were analyzed. Insights gained from this review are as follows: Septate and nonseptate cysts seem to be different entities. The nonseptate type tends to be small and transient but more highly associated with aneuploidies. Septate cysts are very rarely associated with other abnormalities and hydrops fetalis, unlike cystic hygroma colli, but are more progressive with gestational age and associated with adverse outcomes. The cases with high flow have a higher risk of intralesional hemorrhage. Prenatal diagnosis is important for the route of timely delivery and possibly prenatal interventions. Shoulder dystocia is common and should always be taken into account for decisions on the route of delivery.
Keywords: axillary lymphangioma; cystic hygroma; obstetrics (detailed fetal anatomy; prenatal diagnosis; ultrasound.
© 2017 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.