So-called branchiogenic carcinoma is actually cystic metastases in the neck from a tonsillar primary

In 1974, we reported on six patients with squamous cell carcinoma arising in the tonsillar area who presented with a characteristic form of cystic nodal metastasis. This study reports on an additional 21 patients with this entity. Treatment of these patients included removal of the cystic metastasis with or without radical neck dissection and irradiation of Waldeyer's ring. Two patients have died of unrelated disease and two were lost to follow-up, but the remainder are alive without disease 2 months to 12 years following initial diagnosis. We believe that cystic metastases from tonsillar squamous cell carcinomas have often been mistaken for either primary squamous cell carcinomas of branchiogenic origin or with branchial cleft cysts. The distinctive histological features of cystic metastases reviewed after its correct identification can lead to the discovery of an unsuspected primary lesion and result in specific treatment options.