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[Atypical thyrogloss cyst].
M González Pena1, A Samitier Pastor, M D Martínez Novoa
1Servicio de ORL, Hospital Universitario Joan XXIII, Tarragona.
Anales Otorrinolaringologicos Ibero-Americanos
|August 17, 2006
Summary
Thyroglossal duct cysts, often presenting as neck masses, can rarely cause voice changes. This case highlights CT
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Thyroglossal duct cysts are congenital anomalies typically presenting as midline neck masses.
- They commonly occur in the second decade of life and equally affect both sexes.
- While usually asymptomatic, they can enlarge due to infection and present with symptoms like dysphonia, dysphagia, or dyspnea.
Observation:
- A case of a patient with a long-standing history of dysphonia and a palpable cervical mass is presented.
- Computed Tomography (CT) revealed a cervical cyst extending into the preepiglottic and paraglottic spaces, compressing the thyroid cartilage.
- Initial clinical suspicion was laryngeal neoplasia.
Findings:
- CT imaging was crucial in differentiating the thyroglossal duct cyst from a laryngeal tumor.
- Surgical excision using the Sistrunk technique was successful.
- The patient experienced complete voice recovery post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering thyroglossal duct cysts in the differential diagnosis of neck masses presenting with atypical symptoms such as dysphonia.
- CT plays a vital role in the accurate diagnosis and pre-operative assessment of these lesions.
- Successful surgical management can lead to complete resolution of symptoms.