[Does branchiogenic carcinoma exist or not?]

A 43 year-old man with a cystic mass on the side of the neck was admitted to the hospital for possible branchial cyst. The histopathological analysis showed a carcinoma developed on a branchial cyst. After reviewing the literature, we conclude that carcinoma developing on a branchial cyst is uncommon, if, indeed, it exists at all. The diagnostic criteria should be adhered to strictly. When confronted with this histopathologic diagnosis, the possibility of cystic metastasis to the neck of a squamous carcinoma of unknown origin should be considered.