[Mode of presentation of fistula of the first branchial cleft].

BACKGROUND

The rarity and diverse presentations of first branchial cleft anomalies lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment.

POPULATION AND

METHODS

We report 21 cases of such anomalies in children aged 7 months to 8 years whose diagnosis was presumed on clinical presentation and confirmed at surgery.

RESULTS

The symptoms were intractable otorrhea, periauricular, cervical and parotid suppuration, which were present in two, 12, five and three cases, respectively. Two children had an abnormal eardrum and three an epidermic cyst in the external ear canal.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of a first branchial cleft anomaly must be considered in any patient with a history of recurrent periauricular swelling, a sinus located high in the neck, or a mass in the external auditory canal.