Abstract
Background
The development of an invasive squamous cell carcinoma within a lateral cervical cyst as a result of malignant transformation of the epithelium is considered a rare circumstance. The existence of this entity is a source of controversy in light of the differential diagnosis, which includes a cervical metastasis from an unknown primary carcinoma (CUPβsyndrome). Apart from site, histologic findings, and followβup, the principal diagnostic criterion for lateral cervical cyst carcinoma is the histomorphologic demonstration of transition of the benign epithelium into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Although numerous case reports of this entity exist, carcinoma in situ in a lateral cervical cyst has been reported in only five cases thus far.
Method
In this context, we present the case of a 44βyearβold patient with a 7βmonth history of cervical swelling.
Results
After diagnostic extirpation of the tumor, histologic findings were consistent with a lateral branchial cyst with highβgrade dysplasia and carcinoma in situ of the squamous epithelial lining.
Conclusion
This case of a premalignant lesion within a lateral branchial cyst (ie, carcinoma in situ) supplies the βmissing linkβ and adds credibility to the concept of primary branchiogenic carcinoma. Β© 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.