The treatment of neck lymphangioma with intralesional injection of bleomycin

We report our experience with intralesional injection of bleomycin in the treatment of neck lymphangioma. From May 1995 to April 1998, 11 patients aged between 6 to 22 months were treated with intralesional bleomycin injection. Ultrasonography and computed tomography were used to assess and select the cases suitable for sclerotherapy. Patients with lesions encasing the internal jugular vein and the carotid artery were chosen. With the patient under sedation and using ultrasound guidance, the cysts were aspirated and bleomycin was injected at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg body weight. The number of procedures varied from 1 to 4 over a period of 8 months to 1 year. Patients were initially followed-up 3 monthly, then 6 monthly and subsequently yearly. In 4 patients, the neck mass was no longer visible (excellent response). In 5 patients, the neck mass had reduced to a size (more than 50% reduction) that was cosmetically acceptable (good response). There were 2 failures (poor response). There were no complications. Our results suggest that intralesional injection of bleomycin can be effectively used to treat selected cases of neck lymphangiomas.