Branchiogenic cyst. . It is a congenital disorder, characterized by the appearance of an oval, movable nodule or mass in the neck and appears just below the skin between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the pharynx .
In most cases it originates from the second branchial arch and for this reason appears on the lateral aspect of the neck. Usually its appearance is in preschool after an infection of the respiratory tract superior. The diagnosis is corroborated by an ultrasound which visualizes its cystic shape and its content.
Summary
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- 1 Causes
- 2 Pathogenesis
- 3 Clinical picture
- 4 Symptoms
- 5 Tests and reviews
- 6 Treatment
- 7 Prognosis and possible complications
- 8 When to contact a medical professional
- 9 Alternative names
- 10 Sources
Causes
Branchiogenic cysts are formed during the development of the embryo and occur when the tissues in the neck area and clavicle (branchial cleft) fail to develop normally.
The birth defect may appear as open spaces called sinuses of the branchial cleft, which can develop on one or both sides of the neck . A branchiogenic cyst can form from the fluid that drains from one breast, and both the cyst and the breast can become infected .
Pathogeny
Branchial cysts appear due to abnormal development of the embryonic pharyngeal apparatus due to failure of complete obliteration of the second branchial arch. They are usually closed cysts, although sometimes they can be accompanied by a fistula , that is, a duct that opens near the amygdala on the same side or in the skin of the neck . Branchial cysts are benign structures and are only rarely associated with some form of cancer .
Clinical picture
Most branchial cysts are symptomatic, that is, they are not usually painful or tend to interrupt neck mobility or swallowing. Occasionally they can become infected, especially if a fistula persists. The mass is spherical, elongated, and mobile on the lateral aspect of the neck , just below the jaw , at any point along the sternocleidomastoid muscle , most commonly between the middle third and the lower third of the muscle .
In cases where a fistula appears, small dimples or depressions in the skin are seen on either side of the neck or just below the clavicle with fluid that can drain from the dimple.
Symptoms
- Small dimples or depressions, a bump or skin papillomaon either side of the neck or just below the clavicle .
- Draining liquidfrom a pit on the neck .
Tests and exams
The pediatrician can diagnose this condition during a physical exam . The following tests can be done.
- Computed axial tomography
- Magnetic resonance
- Ultrasound
Treatment
We will supply antibiotics if the cyst or sinuses are infected. Treatment of a branchial cyst involves surgical and complete resection of the cyst , in order to prevent complications such as repetitive infections .
Although they are generally benign cysts , the cyst tends to be confused with a malignant tumor of the salivary glands , so aspiration of its contents is sometimes indicated with a fine needle. Surgical management requires excision of the cyst, as well as its ducts and ramifications, if any. It is not likely to see recurrences after the operation. Antibiotics are often prescribed , especially if there are signs of an infection . Thyroid function is not affected by a branchial cyst.
Prognosis and possible complications
The surgery is generally successful, with good results. The cyst or sinuses can become infected .
When to contact a medical professional
Call for an appointment with the doctor if you notice the presence of a small pit, cleft , or lump in the neck or upper part of the shoulder of the baby , especially if drainage of fluid from this area.
Alternative names
- Sinus or fistula of the branchial cleft
