Bronchogenic Cysts: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of bronchogenic cysts?

Bronchogenic cysts are typically asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests done for other reasons. However, if they do cause symptoms, these can vary depending on the size and location of the cyst. Common symptoms can include:

1. Cough: Persistent or chronic cough, which may be dry or produce mucus.
2. Chest pain: Especially if the cyst is large or pressing on nearby structures.
3. Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, which can indicate airway obstruction.
4. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially with exertion or when lying down.
5. Infections: Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, due to the cyst’s proximity to the airways.
6. Difficulty swallowing: If the cyst is large and compressing the esophagus.
7. Hoarseness: Due to pressure on the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
8. Fever: If there is an infection in or around the cyst.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so a proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential.

What are the causes of bronchogenic cysts?

Bronchogenic cysts are believed to develop during the early stages of embryonic development. They are thought to arise from abnormal budding of the primitive tracheobronchial tree, leading to the formation of a cystic structure. The exact cause of this abnormal budding is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to disruptions in the normal developmental processes of the respiratory system.

Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of bronchogenic cysts, as they have been reported to occur more frequently in individuals with certain genetic syndromes or chromosomal abnormalities.

While most bronchogenic cysts are present at birth (congenital), they may not become apparent until later in life when they grow larger or become symptomatic. In rare cases, bronchogenic cysts may also develop later in life as a result of inflammation or infection in the respiratory tract.

What is the treatment for bronchogenic cysts?

Treatment for bronchogenic cysts depends on various factors, including the size and location of the cyst, as well as whether it is causing any symptoms. In many cases, especially if the cyst is small and not causing symptoms, no treatment may be necessary, and the cyst may be monitored periodically with imaging tests.

If the cyst is causing symptoms or complications, or if there is concern about the possibility of malignancy (although bronchogenic cysts are typically benign), treatment options may include:

1. Observation: Regular monitoring of the cyst with imaging tests to check for any changes in size or symptoms.
2. Surgical removal: Surgical excision of the cyst may be recommended if it is large, causing significant symptoms, or if there is a concern about malignancy. The surgery is usually done through a thoracotomy (open chest surgery) or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), depending on the size and location of the cyst.
3. Percutaneous drainage: For cysts that are infected or causing significant symptoms, drainage of the cyst fluid may be performed using a needle inserted through the skin under imaging guidance.
4. Endoscopic treatment: In some cases, especially for cysts located near the airways, endoscopic techniques may be used to drain or remove the cyst using a flexible tube with a camera and instruments inserted through the mouth or nose.

The choice of treatment depends on the specific circumstances of each case and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider experienced in managing bronchogenic cysts.