Congenital cystic lesions in head and neck

Congenital lesions by definition are present at birth; but certain congenital lesions of the head and neck, like branchial cysts and dermoid cysts, clinically present in childhood, early adulthood or late in life. A good history and a high degree of suspicion are the key to the adequate management of such lesions. Here we present a series of six case reports of congenital cystic lesions of the head and neck.     

Neonatal dermoid cyst of the floor of the mouth extending to the midline neck.

We describe a male neonate who presented at birth with a compressible dermoid cyst that extended from the floor of the mouth to the midline of the neck. Ultrasonography revealed a fluid-filled sublingual mass. Magnetic resonance imaging performed when the patient was 1 week old demonstrated a 2-cm, cystic, left-sided, sublingual mass that crossed the midline without extension inferior to the mylohyoid muscle. At 3 months of age, the patient developed a 1-cm, solid, submental mass. At the time of surgery, the lesion had a fibromembranous tract that extended through the myolohyoid muscle to a 1-cm cyst in the submental region. Histologic sections depicted 2 dermoid cysts and a connecting fistula. This case represents the first report (to our knowledge) of a dermoid cyst presenting in a neonate as a mass in the floor of the mouth with extension to the midline of the neck.     

Synchronous cystic teratomas of the craniofacial region

A case of synchronous cystic teratomas presented with the complaints of a slow-growing facial mass and forward protrusion of the right eye since birth. The patient was examined thoroughly and subjected to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The MRI scan revealed the presence of two separate cysts in the right orbit and right temporal fossa. The patient was operated by a combined effort of ophthalmologists and otorhinolaryngologists. The cysts were excised and subjected to pathological examination. The histopathological survey revealed both the cysts to be mature cystic teratomas similar to each other. This coexistence of a primary temporal fossa teratoma with an orbital teratoma is the first of its kind and to the best of our knowledge has not been reported before.     

Management of congenital lingual dermoid cysts

Background

Lingual dermoid cysts are squamous epithelial-lined cavities with variable numbers of skin adnexae in the capsule and are rare entities in the head and neck. We discuss the presentation, possible aetiologies and the surgical management of these lesions and report on the ninth lingual dermoid cyst as an illustrative example, the first to be excised by laser.

Methods

An extensive literature search was undertaken. We present the case of a 4-month-old di-zygotic twin girl with a firm midline anterior tongue dermoid cyst. Its extent was defined by magnetic resonance imaging. The cyst was excised using the CO₂ laser via an extended median sagittal glossotomy approach.

Results

Lingual dermoid cysts most commonly present in early childhood or adolescence and are located in the anterior two thirds of the tongue. Eight lingual dermoid cysts have been reported, all of which were surgically excised, using varying techniques, and no recurrences have been reported.Our patient recovered well and was extubated immediately post-operatively. However, feeding was delayed for 48 h post-operatively due to pain, requiring opiate analgesia. The tongue healed completely with only a small indent in the tip.

Conclusions

Treatment of these lesions consists of complete surgical excision. We propose that the midline sagittal glossotomy incision using the CO₂ laser offers surgical precision, superior haemostasis and wound healing and minimal post-operative oedema. The involvement of the sensitive tongue tip in this approach may be its one drawback, however this may be compensated for with appropriate post-operative analgesia.     

Submental midline dermoid cyst in a 25-year-old man

A 25-year-old man presented with a painless, nontender, nonerythematous sublingual mass that had gradually increased in size over the preceding 2 years. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy was nondiagnostic. During the week following our evaluation, the mass became increasingly painful and swollen, and it severely impaired his speech and swallowing. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a sharply demarcated, fluid-filled, sublingual cyst that measured approximately 7.1 x 4.5 x 2.9 cm. During surgical excision, the mass was found to contain a large amount of sebaceous material, which was removed along with the entire capsule of the cyst. Histologic examination of the cystic contents identified epidermis, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles along with copious sebaceous material. These findings are consistent with a dermoid cyst.     

Congenital cervical choristoma of the neck mimicking cystic lymphangioma

IntroductionChoristoma is a mass presenting normal histology, but in an abnormal location. Cystic choristoma is rarely reported in the head and neck region. Neonatal cystic masses in the neck suggest usually correspond to a diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma.Case reportWe report a case of a congenital cystic choristoma of the neck clinically and radiologically mimicking cystic lymphangioma.DiscussionCongenital cystic choristoma is an extremely rare lesion, essentially described in neonates, composed of various types of tissues. The diagnosis of congenital cystic choristoma may be suggested on imaging and must be confirmed by histopathological examination. Treatment consists of complete surgical resection.     

Nasal dermoid sinus cysts in adults

Nasal dermoid sinus cysts (NDSC) are rare congenital lesions that most frequently present in children, but have been reported in adults. This article reviews adult (more than 16 years of age) nasal dermoid sinus cysts as they present, their radiological investigation, surgical approach and outcome. Thirty-eight previously published cases are reviewed, to which a further six cases are added. All 44 cases are tabulated and reviewed. The risk of intracranial extension is 27.5 per cent, especially men with a dermal sinus. Recurrences are likely if the NDSC is not completely excised. Curative treatment is surgical. It is recommended that all adults who present with a dermal cyst and/or sinus in the region of the nasal dorsum should be investigated by computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MRI). This is to delineate deep tissue involvement and to exclude a possible associated intracranial extension, prior to recommending surgical excision.     

Nasal dermoids

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Midline congenital nasal lesions are rare, occurring in one out of every 20,000-40,000 births. Of these midline lesions, nasal dermoids are the most common. This review centers on diagnosis of nasal dermoids, the role of imaging in diagnosis and surgical planning and the various approaches to surgical management of these lesions. RECENT FINDINGS: Multiplanar, high-resolution thin section magnetic resonance imaging allows for excellent soft tissue detail, particularly when intracranial extension is expected. Open rhinoplasty is favored by many authors for excision of dermoids. Transnasal endoscopic excision of nasal dermoids has been reported but is not recommended for dermoids extending into or beyond the falx cerebri. SUMMARY: Imaging of the midface and brain is essential for accurate diagnosis, assessment for any intracranial extension and appropriate surgical planning. Any surgical approach for removal of nasal dermoid cysts should permit adequate access, allow repair of the skull base and cerebrospinal fluid leak, facilitate nasal reconstruction and result in acceptable cosmesis. The head and neck surgeon should be able to consider various surgical approaches to manage these lesions.     

成人侧颈区孤立囊性肿块的诊断

目的 收集初诊为成人侧颈区良性囊肿患者的临床病理学资料,探讨良恶性的鉴别要点,提高术前诊断准确性。方法 回顾性分析2014年1月—2021年12月北京友谊医院耳鼻咽喉头颈外科诊治的成年患者,初步诊断为鳃裂囊肿或囊性水瘤。总结分析患者的临床、影像学以及病理学资料。结果 共37例初诊为颈部良性囊肿的患者中,最终总恶性率为13.5%(5/37),其中口咽鳞状细胞癌颈淋巴结转移2例,甲状腺乳头状癌颈淋巴结转移3例。颈部肿块存在分隔或囊壁局限性增厚是成人侧颈区孤立囊性肿块最终诊断为颈部淋巴结转移癌的独立危险预测因素(P<0.05)。结论 成人孤立侧颈区囊性肿块需要警惕为颈部不明原发灶转移癌。对于成人侧颈区孤立囊性肿块,尤其当颈部肿块存在分隔或囊壁局限性增厚时,需要结合多种诊断方法,排除颈部不明原发灶转移癌。     

口腔颌面囊肿及囊性病变行开窗引流术治疗的效果

目的分析和研究在口腔颌面囊肿及囊性病变的治疗过程中,采用开窗引流术治疗的效果。方法选择的研究对象为我院2018年12月到2019年12月期间内所收治的68例口腔颌面囊肿及囊性病变患者,按照抽签的方式分为观察组和对照组,其中对照组采用传统开放性手术治疗,观察组采用开窗引流术治疗,分析和对比两组的手术治疗情况(手术时间、术中出血量以及住院时间)、手术成功率、术后感染率、疾病复发率。结果两组患者治疗完成之后,观察组的手术治疗情况、手术成功率、术后感染率、疾病复发率均明显优于对照组,并且将所有数据指标进行相关对比,差异十分明显,有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论在口腔颌面囊肿及囊性病变的治疗过程中,采用开窗引流术治疗具有较好的临床疗效,值得推广使用。     

An unusual presentation of neck dermoid cyst

Congenital masses are the most common non-inflammatory neck lesions in children. Although usually present at birth, they can appear at any age. Dermoid cysts are benign lesions of congenital origin usually presenting as a midline neck mass. They rarely appear in the lateral region of the neck. Lateral cervical dermoid cyst is presented as a rare, unusual case, and differential diagnosis and management are discussed in light of recent literature.     

Endoscopic-assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach for excision of nasoglabellar dermoid cysts

Objective/Hypothesis:

To report the feasibility and early results of a new surgical technique for excision of nasoglabellar dermoid cysts.

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Methods:

Patients with nasoglabellar dermoid cysts without intracranial communication were treated with the endoscopic‐assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach. Data pertaining to patient characteristics, surgical outcome, and cosmetic results were obtained by retrospectively reviewing medical records.

Results:

Three patients were included in the study. The endoscopic‐assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach was utilized in all patients. In each case, complete excision was achieved without violation of the cyst wall. All patients had satisfactory cosmetic results as assessed by subjective evaluation by the parent(s) and surgeon.

Conclusions:

The endoscopic‐assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach allows for safe and complete excision of uncomplicated nasoglabellar dermoid cysts. This new surgical technique should be considered in children with benign, midline nasal, and forehead masses due to its ease and excellent cosmetic results. Laryngoscope, 2010     

Thymic cyst in the neck

A rare case of a thymic cyst in the neck containing both thymus and parathyroid tissue in a 7-year-old boy is presented. The clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, surgical management and histopathological features are described. The embryology of cervical thymic cysts and the differential diagnosis of cystic neck masses in children are briefly reviewed. The diagnosis is seldom made preoperatively. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice for definitive diagnosis, resolution of symptoms and cure.     

Dermoid cyst of the floor of the mouth – a case report

We report a case of a 30-year-old, previously healthy man who presented at our clinic with complaints of increasing dysphagia and globus sensation for about 2 years. In addition, he noticed an increasing submental swelling. On examination, the patient revealed a massive swelling of the floor of the mouth, which had displaced the tongue cranially. MRI imaging showed the lesion to be a homogeneous, cystic lesion, clearly at a distance from the surrounding mucous tissue. Surgery was performed, and the tumor was resected completely. Histologic examination of the resected tissue was consistent with a dermoid cyst located in the floor of the mouth. Although dermoid cysts are rarely located in the oral cavity, it should be included in differential diagnosis. Surgery is the treatment of choice. Received: 19 July 2001 / Accepted: 13 August 2001     

Cervical thymic remnants in children

OBJECTIVE: Define the clinical presentation, diagnostic value of preoperative imaging, surgical management, and outcomes of treatment of congenital cervical thymic remnants in children. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort. SETTING: Single tertiary care institution. PATIENTS: 20 children who underwent excision of cervical thymic remnant, 1975-2006. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURED: Utility of preoperative imaging to diagnose cervical thymic anomalies; success of surgical treatment of cervical thymic remnants. RESULTS: A total of 20 children were identified, with an average age of 6.98+/-5.63 years. All ectopic thymus tissue was found in the embryonic distribution area associated with the third branchial pouch. Fourteen patients underwent excision of a cystic ectopic thymus. Four of these patients exhibited lesions isolated to the cervical region, and 10 patients displayed lesions involving cervicomediastinal areas. Six patients underwent excision of solid ectopic cervical thymus, and each of these was an unanticipated mass encountered during surgical dissection for other procedures. 83% of patients with solid ectopic cervical thymus presented at age 3 or younger. Physical exam and preoperative imaging correctly diagnosed thymic remnants in 15% patients. Resection of thymic remnants was successful in all patients, and there were no recurrences. CONCLUSIONS: Though rare, thymic remnants should be considered in the differential diagnosis of masses presenting in locations associated with derivatives of the third branchial pouch. Though preoperative imaging is helpful in identifying the extent of these lesions, congenital thymic remnants prove difficult to diagnosis radiologically. Surgical excision is the diagnostic and therapeutic treatment of choice in the management of cervical thymic remnants.     

The clinical value of image cytometry DNA analysis in distinguishing branchial cleft cysts from cystic metastases of head and neck cancer

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: A branchial cleft cyst presents as a lump in the neck that, generally, is easily cured by surgical excision. The preoperative diagnosis is based on clinical examination and, especially in the Scandinavian countries, fine-needle aspiration cytology. However, at times, the histopathological analysis of the excised cyst reveals a cystic metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. If adequate diagnosis could be obtained preoperatively, patients would most likely fare better. The study was performed to investigate whether the diagnostic accuracy for these lesions could be improved preoperatively by image cytometry DNA analysis of the fine-needle aspiration cytology specimen. STUDY DESIGN: Image cytometry DNA analysis was performed on the preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology specimen and the surgical specimens from 51 patients with solitary cysts in the lateral region of the neck. Thirty-six patients were selected because there was a discrepancy between findings on fine-needle aspiration cytology and the final histopathological diagnosis or an uncertain cytological diagnosis. There were 25 metastatic squamous cell carcinomas and 3 thyroid cancers, there was 1 lymphoma and 1 sialoadenitis, and there were 21 branchial cleft cysts. METHODS: The cytodiagnostic Giemsa-stained slides were destained in Methanol and then stained with Schiff's reagent. The paraffin-embedded material from excised cysts were cut and deparaffinized and then stained with Schiff's reagent. Ahrens image analysis was used for DNA analysis and lymphocytes were used as control cells. DNA valves exceeding 5c was regarded as aneuploid. RESULTS: Image cytometry DNA analysis of the preoperative cytological specimen was possible in 41 of 51 patients. We found that in 53% of the cases with cystic metastasis, image cytometry DNA analysis, when possible, revealed aneuploidy, thus indicating malignancy. DNA analysis showed diploidy in all benign cases. CONCLUSIONS: Aneuploidy is highly specific for malignancy. Image cytometry DNA analysis increases the diagnostic sensitivity for malignant cystic metastasis and therefore is a valuable supplement to conventional cytological study for these lesions.     

Solitary fibrous tumors of the head and neck: a clinicopathologic and radiologic review

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinicopathologic and radiologic features of solitary fibrous tumors of the head and neck. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis. SETTING: Tertiary referral center that performs head and neck surgical oncology. PATIENTS: Twelve patients with solitary fibrous tumors of the head and neck identified from the pathology and soft tissue tumor databases at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, from 1990 to 2004. All cases were reviewed by 3 experienced pathologists, 1 of whom is an experienced soft tissue tumor pathologist. The diagnosis was confirmed by microscopic features on hematoxylin-eosin staining and by positive staining for CD34 and Bcl2 on immunohistochemical analysis. Tumors were scored for mitotic activity, cellularity, nuclear pleomorphism, necrosis, and the presence of a malignant component. Details on patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, previous treatment and surgery, adjuvant treatment, and outcome were recorded from clinical records. RESULTS: Solitary fibrous tumors occurred in patients over a wide age range (27-78 years; median age, 52 years). Seven patients (58%) were women, and 5 (42%) were men. Most tumors presented as a slow-growing painless mass with a duration ranging from 2 months to 5 years. The tumors ranged from 1 x 1 cm to 6 x 5 cm. Patients presented with a subcutaneous mass of the scalp or face in 4 cases, intraoral mass in 4, sinonasal mass in 3, and paraspinal mass in 1. Computed tomographic and/or magnetic resonance imaging scans of 7 of the 12 patients showed well-circumscribed tumors that enhanced strongly with contrast. Treatment for all of the patients was surgical resection. Pathologic findings showed that 9 tumors were benign and 3 were malignant. Three patients had a positive surgical resection margin. All patients were alive at a median follow-up of 8 months (range, 1-76 months). Local recurrence occurred in 1 patient who had positive surgical margins 3 years after the initial surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Solitary fibrous tumors of the head and neck region are rare and most commonly benign. The diagnosis depends on microscopic and immunohistochemical features, although imaging may help. Patients with these tumors can be safely treated with local excision, but tumors with positive margins require close follow-up over several years owing to the potential for late local recurrence.     

Cervical cystic lymphangioma in children

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cystic lymphangioma are rare and benign, but the prognosis can be serious in terms of its development and management. OBJECTIVES: To describe the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of eight cases. RESULTS: The mean age was 7 years, with a slight female predominance. Ultrasound scanning was sufficient to establish the diagnosis. CT scan or MRI scan was used if parapharyngeal or a mediastinal extension was suspected. All patients in this series underwent surgical excision. There were no postoperative complications or recurrence at one year post-surgery. DISCUSSION: These lesions present as soft compressible cervical swellings of variable size. Radiological imaging (CT, MRI) aid diagnosis and demonstrate extent, however final diagnosis is made by histopathological examination. The treatment of choice is surgical excision. Another option is the use of sclerosing agents. These are used by some surgeons as a first line treatment and also for surgical recurrence.     

Endoscopic CO2 Laser Excision of Large or Recurrent Laryngeal Saccular Cysts in Adults

Saccular cysts are uncommon disorders that represent cystic dilatation of the laryngeal saccule. They are distinguished from laryngoceles by their lack of lumenal continuity with the endolarynx, and the fact that they are not air filled. Voice change is the most common clinical presentation in adults, whereas airway compromise is more common in infants. Management recommendations range from observation of asymptomatic lesions, to endoscopic marsupialization or excision, to excision through a laryngotomy or the thyrohyoid membrane. The literature states that large or recurrent saccular cysts require the exposure afforded by a transcervical approach. This report describes complete endoscopic laser excision of large, symptomatic saccular cysts in seven adults. Four of the seven patients were referred with recurrent cysts after the failure of endoscopic marsupialization procedures. None required tracheotomy, and only three of seven were observed overnight in the hospital. Surgical technique with emphasis on complete excision, pre- and postoperative radiographic and surgical anatomy, and treatment outcome are discussed.