Imaging of pediatric congenital cystic neck masses

Congenital neck lesions are a common indication for imaging in the pediatric population. Although the clinical history and physical examination can narrow the differential diagnosis, imaging is often obtained to distinguish among possible entities and provide additional information needed to guide appropriate treatment. In this article, congenital cystic neck masses including thyroglossal duct cysts, dermoid or epidermoids, branchial apparatus anomalies, thymic cysts, and cervical teratomas will be discussed, with a focus on characteristic imaging features and locations that define these lesions.