Question
How to Handle a Fetal Right Lymphatic Cyst?
Answer
A lymphatic cyst found in the fetal lateral ventricle with a diameter greater than 3 millimeters during the ultrasound examination from 14 to 24 weeks of pregnancy is referred to as a lymphatic cyst. Approximately 90% of fetal lymphatic cysts disappear after the 26th week of gestation, with only a few gradually increasing in size. The size, number, whether it is unilateral or bilateral, and whether it diminishes or disappears over time have no relation to the risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities. When a lymphatic cyst is found, other clinical data should be combined for further amniocentesis and amniotic fluid cell culture or umbilical cord puncture for cord blood culture to exclude chromosomal abnormalities such as trisomy 18 and trisomy 21. Normal fetuses can also develop lymphatic cysts, but most resolve after the 26th week. If it does not resolve by then and is bilateral, a cranial and brain examination and chromosome testing of cord blood should be performed after the child is born. If it can disappear, there will be no compression or increased intracranial pressure, and intelligence or other aspects will not be affected by “bilateral lymphatic cysts.” Lymphatic cysts detected after 22 weeks are usually considered significant, and regular ultrasound checks are recommended without undue psychological stress.