Overview
What is a branchial cleft cyst?
What is the pathophysiology of branchial cleft cyst?
What causes branchial cleft cyst?
What is the prognosis of branchial cleft cyst?
What should patients be told about branchial cleft cyst?
Presentation
What are the signs and symptoms of a branchial cleft cyst?
Which physical findings are characteristic of a branchial cleft cyst?
DDX
Which conditions should be included in the differential diagnosis of branchial cleft cyst?
Workup
What is the role of lab studies in the workup of branchial cleft cyst?
What is the role of imaging studies in the workup of branchial cleft cyst?
Besides imaging studies, what other tests are performed in the workup of branchial cleft cyst?
What is the role of fine-needle aspiration in the workup of branchial cleft cyst?
Which histologic findings are characteristic of branchial cleft cyst?
Treatment
What is the role of antibiotics for the treatment of branchial cleft cyst?
What is the role of surgery in the treatment of branchial cleft cyst?
Which specialist consultations are required for the treatment of branchial cleft cyst?
What are the complications of branchial cleft cyst?
What is included in long-term monitoring of patients with branchial cleft cyst?
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First branchial cleft cyst, type II. Contrast-enhanced axial computed tomography scan at the level of the hyoid bone reveals an ill-defined, nonenhancing, water attenuation mass (m) posterior to the right submandibular gland (g).
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Second branchial cleft cyst. Contrast-enhanced axial computed tomography scan at the level of the hyoid bone reveals a large, well-defined, nonenhancing, water attenuation mass (m) on the anterior border of the left sternocleidomastoid muscle(s).