Question

Patient: A 4-year old male patient

Chief complaint: Recurrent infections and mucus discharge on the surface of the neck
Current Findings: The doctor noticed an opening on a side of the neck directly anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. An endoscopic surgery was recommended to close this opening by laser cauterization.

This condition is called?
a. Branchial fistula
b. Ankyloglossia
c. Thyroglossal fistula
d. Glossoptosis"

Answer 1

Answer: Branchial fistula

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition described in the case is called a branchial fistula.

A branchial fistula is a congenital anomaly that occurs during embryonic development. It is characterized by the presence of an abnormal connection or opening between the surface of the neck and the pharynx. In this case, the opening is located on the side of the neck directly anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

The recurrent infections and mucus discharge on the surface of the neck are common symptoms of a branchial fistula. These openings can allow bacteria or other microorganisms to enter, leading to recurrent infections. The mucus discharge may be a result of the abnormal connection between the pharynx and the surface of the neck.

To address this condition, an endoscopic surgery is recommended. During the surgery, the opening of the branchial fistula would be closed using laser cauterization. This procedure aims to permanently close the abnormal connection and prevent further infections or complications.

Answer 2

This condition is called a branchial fistula (Option A). A branchial fistula is an abnormal connection between the internal lining of the throat and the external surface of the neck. It occurs due to the incomplete closure of the embryonic branchial clefts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition described in the question is called a branchial fistula. A branchial fistula is an abnormal connection between the internal lining of the throat and the external surface of the neck.

It typically occurs due to the incomplete closure of the embryonic branchial clefts.

In this case, the opening on the side of the neck anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle is likely the external opening of the fistula.

Hence, the correct answer is branchial fistula (Option A).