Congenital lung cyst: Report of two cases

Abstract

Background: Bronchogenic cysts are lesions of congenital origin derived from the primitive foregut and are the most prevailing primary cysts of the mediastinum. Most commonly unilocular, they contain clear fluid or mucinous secretions or, less commonly, haemorrhagic secretions or air. They are lined by columnar ciliated epithelium, and their walls often contain cartilage and bronchial mucous glands. It is unusual for them to have a patent connection with the airway, but when present, such a communication may promote infection of the cyst by allowing bacterial entry. The first successful surgical excision of a bronchogenic cyst was reported by Maier in mid twentieth century leading to its classification based on Mailer postulation. No such reports have been described in South/South Nigeria.