Neck cyst

Definition

Neck cysts are congenital cystic swellings of the neck, which are usually visible and palpable and can become inflamed. Cysts are hollow spaces that are filled with fluid. They can arise due to maldevelopment of the neck entrails or are remnants of the development of the neck organs.

Depending on their localization, a distinction is made between median, i.e. middle, and lateral or lateral neck cysts, which have different causes of origin. Mostly neck cysts occur in children and are diagnosed before the age of 6 years. However, they can be observed at any age.

Causes of a neck cyst

Causes of cervical cysts can be maldevelopments of the cervical tissue and dysfunction of embryonic structures. Tissue from which neck cysts may consist is a remnant in the development of the neck organs during the embryonic period. Depending on their location, whether in the middle or on the side of the neck, cysts have different causes of origin.

Middle cervical cysts are caused by a lack of a canal leading from the base of the tongue to the thyroid gland. The inner tissue layer of this thyroid duct forms mucus, which creates a cavity filled with fluid, a so-called cyst. This canal should close before birth.

If it does not, a visible and palpable swelling in the midline of the neck will develop. It can become larger, swell and become inflamed. The cause of lateral neck cysts has not yet been conclusively clarified.

It is assumed that lateral neck cysts, also called brachiogenic cysts, are remnants of gill arches, a structure of embryonic development. Usually, a lateral neck cyst originates from the second of a total of six gill arches. A cavity is formed, which normally disappears again. If this is not the case, a part of it or a duct remains. In most cases, this fluid-filled cavity is located laterally below a neck muscle.

Signs of a neck cyst

The sign of a neck cyst is a swelling of the neck. This can be palpable or visible. A cyst can become enlarged and inflamed. It can lead to a reddening of the throat area and also to fever. If the fluid of a neck cyst empties through a small connection to the surface of the skin, a neck fistula develops.