True about branchial cyst; is all except
Arise from lower third of sternocleidomastoid
Peak age of presentation is 3rd decade
Cyst wall consists of lymphoid tissue
Fluid contains cholesterol crystal
BRANCHIAL CLEFT REMNANTS :
• Branchial cleft remnants typically present as a lateral neck mass on a toddler.
• Structures of the head and neck are derived from 6 pairs of branchial arches, their intervening clefts and pouches.
• Congenital cysts, sinuses, or fistulas result from failure of these structures to regress, persisting in an aberrant location.
• All branchial remnants are present at the time of birth; however, they are often not recognized until later in life.
• These lesions may present as sinuses, fistulas, or cartilaginous rests in infants.
• They occur more commonly as cysts in older children and adolescents.
• Clinical presentation may range from a continuous mucoid drainage from a fistula or sinus to the development of a cystic mass that may become infected.
• Branchial remnants may also be palpable as cartilaginous lumps or cords corresponding with a fistulous tract. Dermal pits or skin tags may also be evident.