PediatricsPediatric Otolaryngology
Branchial cleft fistula
Branchial cleft fistula
During embryonic development, the human neck forms fish-gill-like clefts opening to both sides, which are called "branchial clefts." If a branchial cleft fails to close completely during development, and both ends of the cleft remain open, forming openings in the neck skin, ear canal, and pharynx, a branchial cleft fistula will form. This condition mostly occurs in individuals under 10 years old. Some people may show symptoms at birth, but it is usually discovered in childhood or adulthood. The main symptoms include discharge from the fistula opening, a gradually enlarging mass between the ear and the angle of the mandible, which may be accompanied by neck pain, ear discharge, fever, halitosis, and hoarseness.
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