The congenital sternoclavicular sinus: a single-institution retrospective study of 88 patients

Congenital Sternoclavicular Sinus-Case Series of a Rare Lower Neck Deformity

OBJECTIVES

We encountered patients with a congenital cutaneous sinus tract in the sternoclavicular joint region, which we designate as "congenital sternoclavicular sinus (CSCS)." The aim of this investigation is to enhance recognition of this subtle yet noteworthy entity and develop standardized protocols for its management.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2013 and 2023, 172 patients, including 78 males and 94 females, were referred to our institution for the management of CSCS. Clinical charts were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The majority of patients (60.5%) were young children below 3 years of age, with only six adult patients and a median age of 27.5 months. The left side was implicated in 157 cases (91.3%). In 146 cases (84.9%), a faint skin streak was noted above the orifice. Yet, no pharyngeal sinus tracts were detected, either through barium swallow studies or direct laryngoscopy. All skin lesions featured a diminutive orifice near the sternoclavicular joint, with the tract extending deeply into the subcutaneous tissue and terminating blindly, short of entering the joint, after a distance of 10 mm (ranging from 5 to 21 mm). Histopathological analysis revealed that the epithelial lining predominantly consisted of stratified squamous epithelium (87.8%), with ciliated columnar epithelium accounting for the remaining 12.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

CSCS, though infrequent, presents with distinctive pathological and clinical features. The condition predominantly affects the left sternoclavicular joint region, with the notable "skin streak sign" aiding in diagnosis. We considered CSCS as one disease entity of branchial arch anomalies. Complete surgical excision offers a definitive cure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4402-4408, 2024.

Congenital Cutaneous Sinus at the Sternoclavicular Joint

A 32-year-old female patient presented with chronic discharging sinus with recurrent infection at the left sternoclavicular joint. What is your diagnosis?

Suprasternal dermoid sinus: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Congenital anomalies in the neck region, such as dermoid sinuses, pose diagnostic challenges in pediatrics. Surgical excisions are vital to prevent complications.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 7-month-old male infant had presented with a congenital suprasternal dermoid sinus, which had been evident since birth. Imaging confirmed the diagnosis, prompting surgical intervention under general anesthesia. A delicate excision was performed, guided by a methylene blue dye injection, followed by histopathological confirmation.

DISCUSSION

Dermoid sinuses typically manifest as cutaneous pits or sinus tracts, with a left-sided predominance and a female predilection. An accurate diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging studies to delineate the anomaly. Surgical excision remains crucial to prevent recurrence and complications.

CONCLUSION

This case reaffirms the necessity of prompt and accurate diagnosis followed by surgical intervention for managing congenital dermoid sinuses. Ongoing research and collaborative studies are needed to further refine management strategies and improve outcomes for patients with these anomalies, particularly when presenting in atypical locations.

The congenital sternoclavicular sinus in children: Our experience of 56 cases

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to explore the clinical diagnosis and treatment of the congenital sternoclavicular sinus in the region of sternoclavicular joint, providing valuable insights for clinical practice in children.

METHODOLOGY

A retrospective review of case notes was conducted for all patients treated for congenital sternoclavicular sinus at a tertiary care pediatric otolaryngology practice from January 2022 to September 2023.This review analyzed the clinical presentations, imaging examination, pathological examination, and treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 56 patients with congenital sternoclavicular sinus were included in the study, with a mean age of 4.10 ± 2.57 years old. Among these patients, the sinuses were located on the left side in 43 cases,on the right side in 12 cases,and bilaterally in one case.While two patients never experienced inflammation, 54 patients did, and 45 of them underwent incision and drainage before excision. Imaging examination, including ultrasonography and computerized tomography (CT) scans, revealed characteristics such as thickening of subcutaneous tissue,subcutaneous tubular structures or tubercles in front of the clavicle,and irregularly shaped lesions with clear borders and uneven internal low echo, Pathological examination confirmed that the sinuses were lined by squamous epithelium in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The congenital sternoclavicular sinus may be a remnant of the fourth branchial cleft on the skin side.Complete resection of the sinus during the quiescent phase of inflammation is the recommended curative treatment to prevent recurrent infection.

Congenital dermoid sinus of anterior chest: Case report and review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Congenital dermoid sinus which is a rare congenital anomaly of the anterior chest wall (CDACR) is frequently misdiagnosed or mistreated. This report aims to raise awareness about this condition and share experience based on a demarcation technique for anomalous tissue.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A case of surgically treated CDACR in our clinic and subsequently confirmed through histopathology was chosen. Health records such as, demographics, visits, imaging modalities, management, outcome, and histopathology were reviewed of the patient.

DISCUSSION

Our patient aged 4 years underwent ultrasonography, which revealed a dermoid sinus on her right anterior chest. This diagnosis was later confirmed via histopathology after the excision of the sinus, which was facilitated by a mix of methylene blue and fibrin glue. The incision healed well without any complications.

CONCLUSION

Thus, it was found that CDACRs are those rare congenital anomalies requiring immediate excision to prevent recurrent infections or complications. Knowing how to identify and deal with them is essential.