Naina Bagrodia1, Ann M Defnet, Jessica J Kandel. 1. Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine & Biological Sciences, Chicago, Illinois, USA *Naina Bagrodia and Ann M. Defnet contributed equally to the writing of this article.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the literature on lymphatic malformations and to provide current opinion about the management of these lesions. RECENT FINDINGS: Current treatment options include nonoperative management, surgery, sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and laser therapy. New therapies are emerging, including sildenafil, propranolol, sirolimus, and vascularized lymph node transfer. The primary focus of management centers on the patient's quality of life. SUMMARY: Multimodal treatment of lymphatic malformations continues to expand as new information about the biology and genetics of these lesions is discovered, in addition to knowledge gained from clinical practice. A patient-centered approach should guide timing and modality of treatment. Continued study of lymphatic malformations will increase and solidify a treatment algorithm for these complicated lesions.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the literature on lymphatic malformations and to provide current opinion about the management of these lesions. RECENT FINDINGS: Current treatment options include nonoperative management, surgery, sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and laser therapy. New therapies are emerging, including sildenafil, propranolol, sirolimus, and vascularized lymph node transfer. The primary focus of management centers on the patient's quality of life. SUMMARY: Multimodal treatment of lymphatic malformations continues to expand as new information about the biology and genetics of these lesions is discovered, in addition to knowledge gained from clinical practice. A patient-centered approach should guide timing and modality of treatment. Continued study of lymphatic malformations will increase and solidify a treatment algorithm for these complicated lesions.