Fibrinolysis in lymphangioma.

Summary Two operations upon a giant gluteal lymph-angioma in a boy were complicated by massive haemorrhage. The complication proved to be due to fibrinolysis stimulated by activators released by the tumour. The diagnosis was confirmed by the demonstration of high fibrino-lytic activity and FDP in blood and discharge drained from the wound. The bleeding was effectively controlled by AMCA (tranexamic acid, Cyclokapron®). Long-term treatment with AMCA was accompanied by further reduction in size of the lymphangioma.