Subcutaneous bronchogenic cyst in a child: case report

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Bronchogenic cysts are congenital anomalies arising from the primitive tracheobronchial tree.
• While commonly found in the mediastinum and lungs, they can present at extrathoracic sites.

Observation:

• A case report details a 4-year-old boy with a progressively growing cystic mass in the left scapular area since birth.
• The mass experienced recurrent local infections requiring drainage.

Findings:

• Histological examination revealed a subcutaneous cyst lined by ciliated columnar epithelium.
• The cyst wall contained smooth muscle, cartilage, and bronchial glands, with evidence of chronic inflammation.

Implications:

• Bronchogenic cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric chest wall and neck cystic tumors.
• Surgical excision is the treatment of choice to prevent complications like infection and malignant transformation.