Leads to cyst, sinuses, or fistulas

Presents as lateral neck mass

Branchial anomalies are asociated with branchio-oto-renal syndrome or branchio-otic syndrome

• AD
• Dx: renal US to r/o renal anomalies

1st branchial cleft cyst – Arise between angle of mandible (submandibular area) to external auditory canal

• facial nerve affected
• Lie in close association to parotid gland and facial nerve

2nd branchial cleft cyst (MC TYPE) - On the lower anterior border of middle SCM, goes through carotid bifurcation and into tonsillar pillar

• MC present as a cyst
• Close to glossopharyngeal and hypoglossal nerves
• Close to carotid arteries

3rd – Arise anterior to SCM in low neck into the piriform sinus, inside the pharynx!!

• More frequently on L side

Tx: for all is resection of cyst