Lateral neck cysts and fistulas: causes, diagnosis and treatment
Lateral neck cysts and fistulas are a fairly common disease that can arise from the remains of embryonic branchial arches or the third pharyngeal pouch. They are most often unilateral and appear as a dense elastic painless formation on the anterior surface of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The mobility of this formation may be limited.
The cyst is usually detected at birth. Diagnosis of the disease is facilitated by puncture and contrasting of the cyst or fistula. In this case, it is possible to clearly determine the size of the cyst, and in the case of a fistula, its course and communication with the oral cavity (above or below the tonsil). Staining the fistula tract can also help in diagnosing the disease.
In the differential diagnosis, it is necessary to exclude cavernous lymphangioma, metastases (especially of thyroid cancer) and glomus tumors.
Treatment of cysts and fistulas of the lateral neck is surgical and consists of removing the cyst up to the internal opening in the tonsil area. When the disease suppurates, it is only necessary to open the abscess, and radical surgery is indicated only after the inflammatory phenomena have subsided. The prognosis of the disease is usually favorable, but non-radical removal can lead to relapse.
In conclusion, lateral neck cysts and fistulas are a disease that can be successfully treated with surgery. If you suspect this disease, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.