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mLM, sometimes called lymphangioma circumscriptum, is a rare condition that happens when a person's lymphatic system (part of the immune system that helps fight germs and drain extra fluids) doesn't work correctly. This can cause bubble-like spots on the skin in different colors. mLM can sometimes be referred to incorrectly as hemangioma or cystic hygroma. While mLM is not cancer, it is a serious disease that can leave patients feeling physically and emotionally burdened. Most people are diagnosed with mLM at birth, or shortly after, and it can change and progress as kids get older.
Sometimes when mLM appears on the skin, it can look like or even be misdiagnosed as:
Birthmarks
Blisters
Rashes
Herpes
Warts
Skin cancer
Some visible signs and symptoms of mLM can include sores on the skin that:
In most cases, mLM is genetic and happens when lymph vessels, which are tiny tubes that keep a healthy balance of fluids throughout our body, don’t grow correctly and form clumps under the skin. These clumps may appear as small fluid-filled bubbles (called microcysts) that show up on the skin.
While mLM often appears on the surface of the skin, it can also leave patients feeling emotionally and physically burdened. Depending on the size and location of mLM, patients have reported changes in mental health due to their heightened anxiety and sensitivity about their appearance.
Patients with mLM and their caregivers frequently express concern about their sores oozing, bleeding, or having to avoid movements or activities that could potentially rupture their mLM and cause infection.
Because of their size and where they appear on the body, mLM can be difficult to treat. Currently, there is no FDA-approved treatment for mLM.
— Adult living with mLM
When dealing with the emotional and physical burdens that come with mLM, support and community can make a big impact. Our goal is to help ease your burden as a patient or caregiver by providing you with the credible answers and support you need, the latest updates on recent clinical research, and ways to share your story and connect with others who are navigating the challenges of this serious genetic disease.
Educational content was created in partnership with nonprofit organizations and experts, including CaNVAS, LGDA, LE&RN, PeDRA, and VAccess.org. These organizations are committed to providing valuable clinical content and resources for healthcare providers treating skin diseases and vascular anomalies and supporting the patients they serve.
