Branchial Cyst

Branchial Cyst

A branchial cyst, or 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. It is caused by a failure of the tissues of the neck and collarbone to develop normally. The risk of an embryo developing a branchial 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 cyst develops a drainage pathway to the skin. If there is a drainage pathway, or sinus, mucus may be able to be expressed from it. Fluid may tend to drain from the sinus

If a branchial 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.

Branchial cysts are diagnosed by a physician during a physical exam. Most branchial cysts do not require treatment. They can be treated by being surgically removed. If removed, they are not expected to recur.