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A combined third and fourth branchial arch anomaly: clinical and embryological implications

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Abstract

Embryological abnormalities of the branchial apparatus present an interesting diagnostic and surgical challenge. Thymic cysts are a rare form of branchial apparatus anomaly, resulting from abnormal development of the third pharyngeal pouch. We present two cases of a thymic cyst coexisting with a non recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve (NRILN), two anomalies that to our knowledge have not been associated previously. A possible embryological explication for this double abnormality is discussed, while the clinical implications of this association are presented.

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Acknowledgement

Our thanks to Professor Firth (anatomy department, Charing Cross Hospital, London) for his kind contribution.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otolaryngology, St. Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, London, UK

    H. Mehrzad, C. Georgalas, C. Huins & N. S. Tolley

  2. 28 Fernwood Court, 5 Pickard Close, Southgate, London, N14 6JF, UK

    H. Mehrzad

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  1. H. Mehrzad
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  2. C. Georgalas
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  3. C. Huins
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  4. N. S. Tolley
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Correspondence to H. Mehrzad.

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Mehrzad, H., Georgalas, C., Huins, C. et al. A combined third and fourth branchial arch anomaly: clinical and embryological implications. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 264, 913–916 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-007-0271-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-007-0271-7

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