Bronchogenic cervical cyst in a child

Introduction. The bronchogenic cyst is a rare congenital malformation of the tracheobronchial tree. Ectopic bronchogenic cysts are extremely rare; they usually develop at the cervical level. This cyst is characterized by the presence of respiratory epithelium. Observation. A 5-year-old child was referred to maxillofacial surgery consultation because a right bronchial cyst was suspected. The radiological assessment suggested a thyroglossal tract cyst. The anatomopathological examination confirmed the cyst and lead to the final diagnosis of a dysembryoplastic bronchogenic cyst. Discussion. A bronchogenic cyst is rarely found at the cervical level. When this is the case, its embryological origin and management may be discussed. The preoperative diagnosis may be complex with no clinical or non-specific symptomatology. A complete excision of the lesion must be performed to reduce the risk of recurrence and malignant transformation. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.