Branchial Cyst in a Zenker's Diverticulum

Lymphoepithelial cyst, also known as branchial cyst, is a lesion lined by stratified squamous epithelium and sur− rounded by lymphoid tissue and is a very rare condition. Its origin is unclear. The authors describe a case of lym− phoepithelial cyst in a very unusual location, i.e. within the wall of a cervical diverticulum of the esophagus. The lymphoepithelial cyst was diagnosed in a middle−aged female patient who underwent surgery due to the presence of a small Zenker’s diverticulum causing symptoms of severe dysphagia. Surprisingly, the cyst was diagnosed on histopathological examination after excision of the diverticulum. Surgical excision of the branchial cyst is consid− ered curative and, in some cases, diagnostic (Adv Clin Exp Med 2008, 17, 6, 677–679).