Cervical Chondrocutaneous Branchial Remnant: A Case Report highlights the Essential Role of Histopathology in Diagnosing Congenital Neck Lesions

Abstract

Cervical Chondrocutaneous branchial remnant (CCBR) is an extremely rare, benign, congenital choristoma of the neck. Fewer than 120 cases have been reported to date, mostly as isolated case reports. Because of its clinical similarity to other congenital neck anomalies, such as branchial cleft cysts and thyroglossal duct cysts, establishing an accurate clinical diagnosis remains challenging for surgeons and pathologists. Differentiating CCBR is clinically significant because it influences surgical management and prognosis. We present the case of a five-year-old Libyan girl with a painless, unilateral congenital lesion on the left anterolateral neck, overlying the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The patient’s medical history was notable for a resolved atrial septal defect (ASD) and bilateral hearing loss, which may suggest systemic associations warranting further evaluation. Following complete surgical excision, histopathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of CCBR. Histopathological evaluation is essential to confirm CCBR and differentiate it from other congenital cervical masses. Given the potential clinical implications, correlating these findings with systemic anomalies is vital for comprehensive patient management.