Branchial Cleft Cysts or Sinuses

Branchial Cleft Cysts or Sinuses

Branchial cleft cysts, sinuses, and fistulas are remnants of the embryonic processes that form the structures of the head and neck. They may be apparent at birth, or may not be visible until later in childhood when they fill with secretions. The most common are termed "second branchial cleft" anomalies, and are seen along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid (the neck muscle that passes from the mastoid process -- the bone just behind the ear -- to the clavicle, or collarbone). These anomalies should be excised when they are diagnosed, since they may become infected (and excision after an infection has occurred is more difficult).