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First branchial cleft fistula presenting with external opening on earlobe
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, 06100, Hacettepe, Ankara, Turkey. cagdaselsurer@yahoo.com
Summary
First branchial cleft fistula, a rare congenital head and neck defect, can present with unusual earlobe openings. This case highlights successful surgical excision of a fistula with an external opening on the earlobe.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Malformations
Background:
- First branchial cleft fistula is a rare congenital anomaly affecting the head and neck.
- It accounts for less than 10% of all branchial cleft defects.
- Typical presentations involve the neck or preauricular area.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with a postauricular cystic mass.
- The mass had an external opening on the posterior aspect of the earlobe.
- Surgical exploration identified a sinus tract traversing conchal cartilage.
Findings:
- The sinus tract did not extend into the external acoustic meatus.
- Surgical excision included the earlobe opening and surrounding skin.
- The patient achieved a successful surgical outcome.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering atypical locations for branchial cleft anomalies.
- The earlobe represents a rare but possible site for external fistulous openings.
- Accurate diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for treating these rare congenital defects.
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