Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
04:14
Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults
Published on: February 28, 2025
Second branchial cleft cyst with "cyst-within-cyst" appearance.
Taro Setoguchi1, Kanehiro Hasuo, Yoshitaka Shida
1Department of Radiology, International Medical Center of Japan, Tokyo, Japan. taro-s@mte.biglobe.ne.jp
Clinical Imaging
|September 11, 2007
Summary
A rare "cyst-within-cyst" appearance in a second branchial cleft cyst was observed in a 68-year-old female. This unusual finding in neck masses may be linked to prior diagnostic needle aspirations.
Area of Science:
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Branchial cleft cysts are congenital anomalies that can present as neck masses.
- Second branchial cleft cysts are the most common type, typically presenting in the upper lateral neck.
- Atypical presentations of branchial cleft cysts require careful diagnostic evaluation.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old female presented with a large left neck mass.
- Imaging revealed a unique "cyst-within-cyst" internal architecture within the mass.
- Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a second branchial cleft cyst.
Findings:
- The observed "cyst-within-cyst" appearance is an uncommon feature for a second branchial cleft cyst.
- This imaging finding is hypothesized to be a result of repeated fine-needle aspirations performed for diagnostic purposes.
- The internal cystic structure likely represents a cyst containing a smaller, possibly collapsed or secondary, cyst.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering iatrogenic or post-procedural changes in the imaging appearance of neck masses.
- The "cyst-within-cyst" sign may serve as a potential indicator of prior needle interventions in branchial cleft cysts.
- Further investigation into the specific mechanisms causing this appearance after fine-needle aspiration is warranted for improved diagnostic accuracy.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Development of the Lymphatic System
The development of lymphatic tissues and vessels in embryonic life begins around the fifth week. These structures originate from the mesoderm layer, with lymph sacs emerging from developing veins.
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
01:17Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that plays a crucial role in our digestive system. Measuring about 10 cm in length, it is comparable in size to a kiwi fruit and is located in a hollow area on the lower surface of the liver. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in digestion.
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
01:23Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
01:28Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination
Meaning of Cystoscopic Examination:Cystoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool in urology that is used to assess the structure and function of the genitourinary system. It provides a direct view of the urethra, bladder, and, in some cases, the ureteral openings. This procedure helps detect structural abnormalities, infections, cancers, and blockages in the urinary tract. There are two types of cystoscopy:Flexible cystoscopy is commonly performed in outpatient settings due to its less invasive...
01:23The Bronchial Tree
The human bronchi and bronchial tree play a crucial role in the respiratory system, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Let's delve into the intricate structure and functions of these respiratory components.
The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tube that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi. At a point called the carina, it bifurcates into two primary bronchi. The right primary bronchus is wider, shorter, and more vertical than the left primary...
The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tube that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi. At a point called the carina, it bifurcates into two primary bronchi. The right primary bronchus is wider, shorter, and more vertical than the left primary...
01:23Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are bean-shaped structures that cluster along the lymphatic vessels in the inguinal, axillary, and cervical regions. Each node is divided into compartments by a capsule that extends trabeculae inward.
From a histological perspective, lymph nodes can be split into two main areas: the superficial cortex and the deep medulla. The outer cortex is populated by dendritic cells, macrophages, and B lymphocytes, which are densely packed into follicles. When these B-lymphocytes are presented...
From a histological perspective, lymph nodes can be split into two main areas: the superficial cortex and the deep medulla. The outer cortex is populated by dendritic cells, macrophages, and B lymphocytes, which are densely packed into follicles. When these B-lymphocytes are presented...