Branchial cleft cyst

Alternative names:

brachial cleft cyst; branchial cleft sinus

Definition:

A defect found in the neck or just below the collarbone (clavicle) that may be visible as pits in the skin, projections of tissue, or lumps.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

These defects appear early during development of the embryo when tissues of the branchial cleft (the area in the neck and collarbone) fail to develop in the normal manner. The sinuses and cysts may appear on one or both sides. Fluid occasionally can drain from a sinus, and these structures can become infected.