Presternal Subcutaneous Bronchogenic Cyst: An Unusual Ectopic Presentation Of A Congenital Lesion

Abstract

Bronchogenic cysts are rare benign congenital lesions, most commonly located within the thoracic cavity, particularly in the mediastinum or pulmonary parenchyma. Subcutaneous presternal bronchogenic cysts are exceedingly uncommon, with fewer than 80 cases reported in the literature since their first description in 1945. We report a rare case of a 14- year- old girl presenting with a progressive presternal midline swelling since childhood, previously managed by needle aspiration with subsequent recurrence. Thoracic computed tomography suggested a thyroglossal duct cyst. Complete surgical excision through a cervical incision was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a bronchogenic cyst. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of presternal cystic masses and underscores that complete surgical excision is the only curative treatment, as needle aspiration invariably leads to recurrence.