Branchial cleft cyst

A branchial cleft is a birth defect, meaning it occurs in the womb while the baby is developing. It happens when an area does not develop as it should during the early stages of the baby's growth.

One of the obvious signs of a branchial cleft cyst is a small or large lump on one side of your neck.

There are actually two types of branchial cleft anomalies. The first is an internal cyst that appears as a large lump bulging out from your neck.

The second is a fistula that forms as a sore on your neck and drains onto the surface of your skin.

A branchial cleft cyst can cause infections that recur repeatedly in the area. This means that when you have another infection, such as a cold, a cough, or a sore throat, your branchial cleft cyst may become inflamed.

If a branchial cleft cyst becomes infected, there is swelling, redness, warmth to the touch, and pain around the affected area. A purulent discharge may also occur, either with pressure or on its own.