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Branchial fistula: CT manifestations
T E Herman1, W H McAlister, M J Siegel
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
Pediatric Radiology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
A rare branchial fistula originating from the pyriform sinus caused a recurrent neck abscess in a patient. This uncommon congenital anomaly was diagnosed using CT and barium swallow imaging.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Branchial cleft anomalies are congenital malformations that can present with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Recurrent neck abscesses may indicate an underlying undiagnosed congenital abnormality.
Observation:
- A patient presented with a recurrent left neck abscess.
- Diagnostic imaging, including CT and barium swallow, revealed a fistula connecting the pyriform sinus to the neck.
Findings:
- The identified lesion was a branchial fistula, an uncommon anomaly arising from the pyriform sinus.
- Imaging successfully demonstrated the anatomical course of the fistula.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering congenital anomalies in the differential diagnosis of recurrent neck infections.
- Understanding the embryology and pathology of branchial fistulas is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- The findings emphasize the utility of CT and barium swallow in visualizing such rare fistulas.