What is Branchial fistula?

Branchial cleft fistulae are rare congenital abnormalities that arise from the abnormal persistence of branchial apparatus remnants. A complete fistula is a tract that has an internal opening and an external opening.

What causes branchial fistula?

What are the causes? Branchial cleft cysts and sinus tracts are congenital anomalies, meaning they result from an unexpected change in the womb before birth. Although most commonly unilateral (occurring on one side of the neck), they can be bilateral (both sides of the neck).

How is a branchial cyst treated?

The treatment for branchial cleft cysts and sinus tracts is surgical removal. There is no known medical therapy with the exception that infected branchial cleft cysts and sinus tracts do require initial antibiotic treatment. The infection should be resolved before surgery is performed.

What is the meaning of branchial arches?

The branchial arches are embryologic structures that develop into anatomic structures in the adult human. The term “branchial” derives from the Latin “branchia,” meaning gills, and is used to describe the development of many species of fish and amphibia.

What is a branchial cyst?

What is a branchial cleft cyst? Also, known as a cleft sinus, a branchial cleft cyst is a lump that develops in the neck or just below the collarbone. Branchial cleft cysts form during development of the embryo. They occur when tissues in the neck and collarbone area (branchial cleft) fail to develop normally.

What happens if a fistula is left untreated?

Fistulas can cause a lot of discomfort, and if left untreated, may cause serious complications. Some fistulas can cause a bacteria infection, which may result in sepsis, a dangerous condition that can lead to low blood pressure, organ damage or even death.

Do sinuses drain into neck?

A sinus may drain mucus or pus following rupture of an abscess. It usually opens on the side of the neck just above the junction of the collarbone and breast bone (sternoclavicular joint), in front of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. There may also be an associated sinus draining into the pharynx.