THE RARE THIRD BRANCHIAL CYST IN PAEDIATRIC AGE GROUP

Abstract

Third branchial cleft cysts are rare presentations of an abnormal persistence of the branchial apparatus during embryological development. Radiological investigations such as Computed tomography (CT scan) examination and Magnetic Resonant (MR) imaging studies help to diagnose in suspected cases. On CT scan these cysts appear as low attenuated homogeneous masses with well-circumscribed margins; on MR imaging, they demonstrate hyperintense relative to muscle on T2-weighted images. Definitive treatment is surgical excision. We present a case of a third branchial cleft cyst in 5 years old female child describing its diagnosis and treatment.