Surgery>>>>>Disorders of the Head and Neck
Question 4#

Branchial cleft cysts, if enlarged, should be removed because of which of the following:

A. Prone to becoming secondarily infected
B. Prone to cause acute airway obstructions
C. Possible premalignant concerns
D. Association with severe halitosis

Correct Answer is A

Comment:

Congenital branchial cleft remnants are derived from the branchial cleft apparatus that persists after fetal development. There are several types, numbered according to their corresponding embryologic branchial cleft. First branchial cleft cysts and sinuses are associated intimately with the external auditory canal (EAC) and the parotid gland. Second and third branchial cleft cysts are found along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle and can produce drainage via a sinus tract to the neck skin. Secondary infections can occur, producing enlargement, cellulitis, and neck abscess that requires operative drainage.