Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are a variety of congenital hamartomatous malformations of the lymphatic system. The lesions can be superficial or deep and may have mixed venous elements. The term lymphatic malformations should not be used interchangeably with old misnomers like lymphangioma and cystic hygroma. Lymphangioma would literally mean a tumor of the lymphatic system, which is not the case. The term cystic hygroma is reserved for antenatally diagnosed bilateral cystic swelling in the occipito-cervical areas of the fetus. It is important to differentiate this entity from lymphatic malformation as cystic hygroma is associated with chromosomal abnormalities in 50% and is prone to develop hydrops. Although some LMs have potential for spontaneous regression, others require therapy depending on their site, size, nature (macro- or microcystic) and associated complications. Management may vary from observation to medical or sclerotherapy to surgical intervention.