(See also Overview of Skin Growths Overview of Skin Growths Cells of the skin and underlying tissue may accumulate and cause growths. Growths may be raised or flat and range in color from dark brown or black to skin-colored to red. They may be present... read more and Overview of Growths and Malformations of the Vessels Overview of Growths and Malformations of the Vessels Growths and malformations of the vessels (angiomas) are collections of abnormally dense blood or lymph vessels, usually located in and below the skin, that cause red or purple discolorations... read more .)
Lymphangiomas are uncommon but usually appear between birth and age 2. They may be tiny bumps or large, deforming growths.
Lymphangiomas do not itch or hurt and are not a form of cancer. Most lymphangiomas are yellowish tan, but a few are reddish or purple. When injured or punctured, they release a colorless or blood-tinged fluid.
Doctors base the diagnosis of lymphangiomas on an examination and the results of magnetic resonance imaging Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a strong magnetic field and very high frequency radio waves are used to produce highly detailed images. MRI does not use x-rays and is usually very safe... read more 
(MRI).
Treatment of lymphangiomas is not usually needed. Removal with surgery is usually not successful because lymphangiomas grow deep and wide beneath the surface and tend to grow back.
