Branchial cleft cysts, also known as branchial cysts, are congenital abnormalities that occur due to the improper development of the branchial apparatus during fetal development. The branchial apparatus is a series of embryonic structures that play a role in the formation of the head and neck.
These cysts form as a result of the persistence of remnants of the branchial arches or clefts, which are normally present during the early stages of embryonic development but disappear as the fetus grows. However, in some cases, these structures fail to fully regress and lead to the formation of branchial cleft cysts.
Branchial cleft cysts usually present as painless, soft, and mobile masses in the neck area. They are typically located along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, but they can also be seen in other compartments of the neck. These cysts may become infected or inflamed, causing pain, swelling, and the presence of pus.
Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination and imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment involves surgical removal of the cyst to prevent the potential for infection, recurrence, and other complications.
In summary, branchial cleft cysts are congenital anomalies that manifest as cystic masses in the neck. They form due to the incomplete regression of embryonic structures known as branchial arches or clefts. Surgical removal is typically necessary to resolve these cysts and prevent complications.
