Branchial Cleft Cyst

Branchial Cleft Cyst

A branchial cleft cyst is a birth defect located on the neck or near the collarbone. It is a cavity on either side of the neck that is left from embryonic development. The risk of an embryo developing a branchial cleft cyst can be hereditary. It is present at birth, but may not be noticed until adolescence.

A cyst is a closed sac structure that can occur anywhere on the body. It may appear as a lump, pit, or projection of tissue. Sometimes, a branchial cleft cyst develops a drainage pathway to the skin called a sinus. If there is a sinus, mucus may be able to be expressed from it. Fluid may tend to drain from the sinus

If a branchial cleft cyst becomes inflamed or infected, it may need to be treated with intravenous antibiotics. Once the inflammation is under control, it will be surgically removed.

A physician can diagnose a branchial cleft cyst during a physical exam. Most branchial cleft cysts do not require treatment. They can be treated by being surgically removed. A physician may suggest removal of the cyst due to their tendency to become infected. If removed, they are not expected to recur.