Which type of cells are most commonly found in a branchial cyst?

Branchial cysts, also known as brachial cleft cysts, are embryonic remnants that arise from the branchial arches during fetal development. The most common type of cells found in these cysts are squamous or columnar epithelial cells. These cells line the cysts and are characteristic of the epithelial component in such developmental anomalies.

Branchial cysts typically show a lining of stratified squamous epithelium or occasionally respiratory-type (ciliated columnar) epithelium, depending on their location and developmental origin. The presence of these epithelial cells supports the notion that branchial cysts are remnants of the embryonic structures that initially had squamous or columnar lining.

In contrast, other cell types listed are not typical components of branchial cysts. Fibroblasts generally play a role in connective tissue but are not the primary cell type within these cysts. Adipocytes, or fat cells, are unrelated to the cyst formation. Neurons do not contribute to the composition of a branchial cyst either, as these cysts are not associated with nervous tissue. Thus, the presence of squamous or columnar cells as the predominant cell type directly correlates with the pathogenesis and characteristics of branchial