Bronchogenic Cyst

Excerpt

Bronchogenic cysts, first described in 1859, are rare congenital malformations originating from abnormal budding of the primitive foregut during embryonic development. These cysts are most commonly located in the mediastinum or lungs (see Image. Bronchogenic Cyst). However, on rare occasions, they may arise along the entire foregut pathway, sometimes in ectopic locations, such as the diaphragm and retroperitoneum. Characteristically lined with respiratory epithelium and typically filled with mucus or fluid, bronchogenic cysts can exhibit various clinical and radiologic presentations.

Most bronchogenic cysts are benign lesions with a slow growth rate and an insidious onset. Often asymptomatic, these cysts may be discovered incidentally on imaging. However, bronchogenic cysts can also present with significant clinical complications if they enlarge or become infected, leading to symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, chest pain, or recurrent respiratory infections. In some cases, bronchogenic cysts cause acute symptoms due to airway obstruction or infection, underscoring the importance of recognizing and managing these polymorphic malformations in clinical practice.