Embryology of congenital neck masses

Knowledge of the embryogenesis of the head and neck is essential to the evaluation and management of congenital neck masses. In this article, we describe the embryology of the most common congenital neck masses: branchial apparatus and thyroglossal duct cysts. The anatomy of both branchial clefts and pouches is reviewed along with the histology and descent of the thyroid from its origin at the foramen cecum of the tongue. This article serves as the foundation for understanding the anatomy surrounding surgical resection of these lesions, which will be discussed in later articles.