Picibanil Therapy for Lymphangioma

Picibanil을 이용한 림프관종의 치료 효과

Lymphangiomas are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system. Cervicofacial lymphangioma represents 75% of all lymphangiomas. Surgical excision has been the treatment of choice, however the reported results have been unsatisfactory. Various sclerosants have been tried to treat lymphangiomas, with variable results and considerable side effects. Herein we report the results of treatment using intralesional picibanil for lymphangioma. Between January 1996 and January 1998, 16 patients with lymphangiomas, 10 boys and 6 girls, were treated with intralesional picibanil injections. All cases were treated as a primary therapy. Eight lymphagiomas were located in the neck, and 2 in the cheek, 2 in the parotid, 2 in the trunk, 1 in the oropharynx, 1 in the thigh. Dose and method of intralesional injection was similar to that reported by Ogita in 1987. Complete regression was observed in 10 cases and marked regression(> 75% size decrease) in 2 cases and moderate regression(75%-25% size decrease) in 2 cases and poor regression(< 25% size decrease) in 2 cases. No serious side effect was observed except fever lasting for 2-3 days. Intralesional injection of picibanil for lymphangiomas represents a safe, easy and effective way of treatment with high success rate. Picibanil injection can be used as a primary therapy for lymphangiomas.