Branchial cleft cyst : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Alternate Names : Cleft sinus

Definition

A branchial cleft cyst is a lump that develops in the neck or just below the collarbone. It is a type of birth defect.

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Branchial cleft cysts form during development of the embryo. They occur when tissues in the neck and collarbone area (branchial cleft) fail to develop normally.

The birth defect may appear as open spaces called cleft sinuses, which may develop on one or both sides of the neck. A branchial cleft cyst may form from fluid drained from a sinus. The cyst or sinus can become infected.

• Branchial cleft cyst : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

• Branchial cleft cyst : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests

• Branchial cleft cyst : Treatment

Review Date : 11/2/2009
Reviewed By : Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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