A type II first branchial cleft cyst masquerading as an infected parotid Warthin's tumor.
The diagnosis of a parotid mass usually depends on thorough history taking and physical examination. Diagnostic modalities, including ultrasonographic examinations, computed tomography and magnetic resonance images, may also provide substantial information but their accuracy for diagnosis is sometimes questionable, especially in differentiating some rare neoplasms. First branchial cleft cysts (FBCCs) are rare causes of parotid swelling and comprise less than 1% of all branchial anomalies. They are frequently misdiagnosed due to their rarity and unfamiliar clinical signs and symptoms. We present a case of type II FBCC masquerading as an infected parotid Warthin's tumor. We also review the clinical signs and symptoms of FBCCs in order to remind clinicians that this rare branchial anomaly can mimic an infected Warthin's tumor and may be seated in the deep lobe of the parotid gland. By making an accurate pre-operative diagnosis of type II FBCC, we can minimize surgical morbidity and avoid incomplete resection and possible recurrence.
Chen
Meng-Feng
MF
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, ROC.
Ueng
Shir-Hwa
SH
Jung
Shih-Ming
SM
Chen
Yao-Liang
YL
Chang
Kai-Ping
KP
D000235:Adenolymphoma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D000368:Aged; D001935:Branchioma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010307:Parotid Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology