Therapeutic Experiences in Kampo Medicine, Eppikajyutsu-tou, Against Macrocystic Lymphangioma

Abstract

Purpose: Sclerotherapy and/or resection are the 2 main therapeutic strategies used in the management of lymphangioma. Recently, we have focused on the Kampo medicine, Eppikajutsuto (TJ-28), as another therapeutic option because of its safety and convenience. In this paper, we aim to provide an update of our single institution’s experience.

Methods: The records of 10 patients who underwent therapy for lymphangioma with TJ-28 from 2013–2015 were reviewed by comparing age, region, type of lymphangioma, size, and prognosis.

Results: The ages were from newborn to 21 years (mean: 8 years). The average duration until the disappearance of the lesion was 5.8 months. There were 6 patients with the lesion in the cervical region, 1 on the body, and 3 in the extremities. There were 9 cases of multiple cysts and 1 case of simple cyst. In 5 cases, the administration of TJ-28 resulted in cyst shrinkage, and in 5 cases, the cysts disappeared without any side effects or sign of infection. One case needed re-administration owing to recurrence.

Conclusion: The Kampo medicine TJ-28 should be the first option for the treatment of lymphangioma rather than sclerotherapy and/or surgical resection.