Abstract

Thyroglossal Duct Cyst

INTRODUCTION: The most frequent congenital cervical anomalies can form anywhere along the thyroid's migration path from the base of the tongue to the bottom of the neck. They often present as midline neck cysts closely associated with the hyoid bone. It is observed in 70% of all cervical masses in children, 7% of the adult population. There is an equal prevalence between men and women which is closely associated with the hyoid bone. Carcinoma on a CT scan is very rare (less than 1%). They are more common in women. Papillary Carcinoma (90%), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (5%). It usually presents in the third or fourth decade of life. They are Asymptomatic. They can occur at any age as Cyst, abscess, fistula, or tumor anywhere along the path of the thyroid gland. The mass will rise with tongue protrusion or during swallowing (reliable clinical sign for diagnosis). TREATMENT: Require surgical removal to prevent recurrent infections due to small risk of malignancy. Simple excision is associated with high recurrence rates (45-55%). SISTRUNK OPERATION is a standard surgical treatment. DIAGNOSIS: HISTOPATHOLOGY: Cystic structures lined by respiratory epithelium, squamous epithelium, or a combination of both. Due to a high frequency of infection, inflammatory infiltrates (granulation tissue or giant cells) may occur. In about 70% of cases, microscopic foci of ectopic thyroid gland tissue can be found, usually within the cyst wall. POSTOPERATIVE CARE AND REHABILITATION: Pain relievers or antibiotics may be prescribed after the operation depending on the size of the thyroglossal duct cyst, there may be a surgical drain in place, which would be removed a few days after surgery. Avoid lifting heavy objects for 2 to 6 weeks. Patients can usually return to work or school 1 week after surgery.


Author(s): Leonardo Colorado Aguirre

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