Adult bronchogenic cyst of the neck presenting as large neck abscess

Bronchogenic cyst of the neck in an elder patient: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Bronchogenic cysts are rare malformations, mostly diagnosed in children. We report the rare case of a neck bronchogenic cyst diagnosed in an elderly patient.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

The patient complained of a long-standing submental mass. The diagnostic work-up resulted in a thyroglossal duct cyst diagnosis for which the patient underwent a Sistrunk procedure. However, the histological analysis of the lesion ultimately revealed a bronchogenic cyst.

DISCUSSION

Neck bronchogenic cysts are rare and, in adults, normally asymptomatic. Imaging exams can suggest the diagnosis but they are most important for surgical planning. Surgery is the elected treatment for bronchogenic cysts and the histopathologic exam of the specimen provides definitive diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrates than even though they are a rare diagnosis, bronchogenic cysts should be considered in the diagnostic work-up of neck cysts, even in elderly patients.