This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Branchial sinus

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

This is a tiny hole in the lower part of the neck formed by incomplete closure of the second branchial arch when it grows down over the third and fourth branchial arches in the embryo. The sinus is frequently associated with a track running up the neck, often as high as the posterior pillar of the fauces in the pharynx (so forming a branchial fistula).

The condition is normally observed in children, most often in the first year of life. It presents as a small orifice discharging mucous in the anterior border of the sternomastoid, one-third of the way up from the muscle's origin.

Treatment is by surgical excision, dissecting the fistula out as high as possible. The patient or his/her parents should be informed that more than one incision may be necessary despite the single, small hole observable.


Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.