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Acute suppurative thyroiditis with deep neck infection: a case report
Kai-Jen Tien1, Tun-Chieh Chen, Ming-Chia Hsieh
1Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. tkzzkimo@gmail.com
Summary
Acute suppurative thyroiditis, a rare bacterial infection, can be life-threatening if diagnosis is delayed. Prompt antibiotic treatment and abscess drainage lead to excellent outcomes for this uncommon thyroid condition.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Thyroid gland suppuration is rare, often presenting with nonspecific symptoms, leading to diagnostic delays.
- Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae are common causative agents.
Observation:
- A unique case of acute suppurative thyroiditis in an adult male following a fish bone injury.
- Patient presented with sore throat, fever, chills, and neck swelling.
- Imaging revealed a thyroid abscess with deep neck infection.
Findings:
- Abscess culture identified Streptococcus viridans as the causative agent.
- The patient had a history of essential hypertension and gouty arthritis.
- Successful treatment involved parenteral antibiotics and surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing acute suppurative thyroiditis.
- This case highlights Streptococcus viridans as a potential pathogen in thyroid abscesses.
- Prompt management of thyroid abscesses ensures an excellent prognosis, avoiding life-threatening complications.
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