ABSTRACT
Objective To discuss the diagnostic value of branchial cleft fistula with CT and(or)MRI.Methods CT and(or)MRI findings of 33 cases of branchial cleft fistula were collected and analyzed retrospectively.Results Branchial cleft fistula were divided into four types namely first,second,third and fourth according to its origin with each type having its own corresponding CT and MRI features.Among the 33 cases,7 cases (21%)were first branchial cleft fistula,which originated from external auditory meatus and the parotid gland.These lesions presented as a tubular structure around the ear,sometimes invading the facial nerve,causing facial nerve symptoms.1 8 cases (5 5 %)were second branchial cleft fistula,and were presented as tubular ones in the anterior triangle area of the neck or along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.8 cases (24%)were third or fourth branchial cleft fistula,which were difficult to differentiate,both of them originated from pyriform sinus and partly penetrated the thyroid.Conclusion CT and(or) MRI could show the location and range of the lesion clearly,making it valuable for diagnosis of branchial cleft fistula.