Lack of Response to Systemic Corticosteroids in Patients with Lymphangioma

Abstract

Lymphangioma is a benign nonencapsulated orbital tumor that is difficult to treat. Recently, systemic corticosteroids were advocated as a safe and effective alternative to surgical drainage of the cysts. We describe our experience with 3 cases in which proptosis progressed or did not improve despite the exclusive use of systemic steroids for 1 week, necessitating urgent surgical intervention. These three cases demonstrate that at least in some cases, steroids alone may be ineffective, and alternative interventions must be undertaken.

In Brief

Although systemic steroids may be a useful adjunct to other modalities in the management of lymphangioma, their use as a sole agent to reduce the mass effect and control the symptoms of lymphangioma should be avoided.