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Lymphangiomas

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Reviewed/Revised Apr 2022 | Modified Sep 2022
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What are lymphangiomas?

Lymphangiomas are bumps in the skin filled with a clear or blood-tinged fluid. They are caused by overgrown lymph vessels. Lymph vessels Overview of the Lymphatic System The lymphatic system is a vital part of the immune system. It includes organs such as the thymus, bone marrow, spleen, tonsils, appendix, and Peyer patches in the small intestine that produce... read more transport lymph throughout the body. Lymph is a clear fluid containing white blood cells that help the body fight infection.

  • Lymphangiomas are uncommon

  • They usually show up between birth and age 2

  • They aren’t cancerous

What are the symptoms of lymphangiomas?

  • Can appear as tiny bumps or as large growths that misshape the body

  • Are mostly yellowish tan in color, but a few are reddish or purple

  • Don’t itch or hurt

  • Let out a clear or pinkish liquid if broken open

How do doctors treat lymphangiomas?

Lymphangiomas don’t usually need treatment.

Surgery to remove a lymphangioma isn’t recommended. Lymphangiomas grow deep and wide below the skin, and they tend to grow back after surgery.

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