Complications and Diagnosis of Branchial Cleft Cysts: A Case Report

Branchial cleft cysts (BCCs) are congenital anomalies that can be found in children and young adults. The exact incidence of these anomalies is unknown as the diagnosis may be missed. Branchial cleft cysts can present in a variety of locations depending on the cleft they are derived from. Regardless of location, branchial cleft cysts are rather benign. However, a variety of complications can arise due to infection, and infections are often recurrent. Diagnosis may occur incidentally on imaging studies as such studies are often performed to rule out a variety of complications from infections alone. Treatment includes first treating any infection and any such complications that exist, followed by surgical excision. Surgical excision is performed to prevent the recurrence of infection. A case of a 14-year-old female with a painful swollen throat, trismus, and difficulty swallowing is reported.