Lymphangiomas of the head and neck in adults.

Lymphangiomas are considered to be congenital malformations of lymphatic channels. Fifty percent to 60% of these lesions are present at birth, with 80% to 90% detected by the second year of life. These lesions are rare in adults but may occur as late as the fifth decade of life. Primary lymphangiomas of the hypopharynx and upper aerodigestive tract are exceedingly rare in adults. The clinical courses of three adults with lymphangiomas of the head and neck are presented. In one case the lesion was confined to the hypopharynx. The literature contains considerable discussion about congenital lymphangiomas; few studies, however, have addressed this problem specifically in the adult population. The clinical appearance, difficulties of diagnosis, and guidelines of treatment are discussed.