Bronchogenic Cyst
Lester D. R. Thompson, MD
Key Facts
Terminology
Rare congenital malformation of ventral foregut
Clinical Issues
Pediatric population, rare in adults
Midline superficial presternal or suprasternal is most common neck location
Male > > female (4:1)
Presents with airway compression, dysphagia, infection, or may be asymptomatic
Complete surgical excision is treatment of choice
Image Findings
Best study: Contrast-enhanced T1WI or T2WI MR to show well-defined, solitary, smooth-bordered mass
Microscopic Pathology
Cyst lined by respiratory-type epithelium
Cyst wall with mucoserous glands, hyaline cartilage, and smooth muscle
 A cervical bronchogenic cyst is shown from the lateral neck of a 2-month-old male. Clinically it was thought to be a branchial cleft cyst. Note the ciliated respiratory epithelium  . |
 Although hyaline cartilage  is readily seen in intrathoracic bronchogenic cysts, it may be more difficult to identify the cervical variant. Multiple recuts may be required. |
TERMINOLOGY
Synonyms
Bronchial cyst
Definitions
Rare congenital malformation of ventral foregut
ETIOLOGY/PATHOGENESIS
Embryogenesis
Derived from diverticula buds that separate from foregut during formation of tracheobronchial tree
CLINICAL ISSUES
Epidemiology
Incidence
Rare cystic lesion within the anterior neck
Age
Pediatric population, rare in adults
Gender
Male > > female (4:1)
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