[The cavernous lymphangioma of the external genitalia].

PURPOSE Fluctuating tumours of the scrotal and penile basis can be caused by benign lymphangiomas. These rare malformations can preferently be seen in children. CASE REPORT We report about a 10 year old boy, who was presented in our department with a bluish, indolent, 4x2 cm sized, fluctuating tumor of the scrotum and penile basis. Magnetic resonance imaging could demonstrate the whole anatomic extension of the sonographically hypoechoic lesion. Operative removal of the tumour was performed without complication. Histologically, the specimen was diagnosed as cavernous lymphangioma. To date, there is no sign of recurrence (follow-up period: 6 months). CONCLUSION A cavernous lymphangioma of the scrotum or penis is very uncommon. We report, to the best of our knowledge, the 2nd case reported in literature. Even lymphangiomas with other histological features rarely affect this region. Lymphangiomas are benign tumours of lymphatic vessels. The surrounding tissue sometimes shows a perifocal inflammation and scarification. About 50% of the cases are considered congenital. 9/10 lymphangiomas become obvious during the first 2 postnatal years. Therapy of choice is the complete excision.