Lymphangiomas in children: percutaneous sclerotherapy with an alcoholic solution of zein.

Abstract

To determine the efficacy of percutaneous sclerotherapy with an alcoholic solution of zein in lymphangiomas in pediatric patients. Fourteen patients with macrocystic and mixed lymphangiomas were treated with use of Ethibloc as a sclerosing agent. The procedure was performed with ultrasonographic and/or fluoroscopic guidance. Follow-up clinical and sequential computed tomographic examinations were performed to evaluate regression of the lesion. Regression was excellent in nine (64%) of the 14 lesions: Regression was complete in four lymphangiomas and was to less than 5% of the initial volume in five. Satisfactory results were obtained in the remaining five (36%) of 14 lesions. The most frequent complication was leakage of Ethibloc without important sequelae in 10 of the 14 lymphangiomas. Percutaneous sclerotherapy with Ethibloc was a safe and effective procedure in the treatment of macrocystic and mixed lymphangiomas.