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Branchial cyst—to endoscope or not?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

A. P. Bath*
Affiliation:
Nottingham
G. E. Murty
Affiliation:
Nottingham
P. J. Bradley
Affiliation:
Nottingham
*
ENT Department, Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, Brunswick Road, Norwich NR1 3SR.

Abstract

Cervical cystic metastases are uncommon, originating predominantly from an oropharyngeal primary. Pre-operative differentiation from a branchial cyst can prove difficult. Three cases which presented clinically as branchial cysts but were subsequently found to be cystic metastases are described, and the literature is reviewed. Endoscopy, ipsilateral tonsillectomy and blind biopsies of Waldeyer's ring, combined with excision of the cervical lesion are recommended in patients over 40 years old.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1992

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