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Tuberculosis of the thyroid gland. A case report
S Aerts1, B J Gypen, R Van Hee
1Academic Surgical Centre Stuivenberg, ZNA Stuivenberg, Antwerp, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|February 27, 2010
Summary
Tuberculosis of the thyroid gland is rare. This case highlights diagnosis challenges, ultimately requiring surgical pathology for confirmation in a patient with a multi-nodular goiter.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a rare cause of thyroid gland disease.
- Thyroid TB often presents insidiously, mimicking other thyroid pathologies.
- A multi-nodular goiter is a common thyroid condition, complicating TB diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old female with a history of euthyroid multi-nodular goiter presented with hoarseness.
- Hoarseness was attributed to right recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis.
- Ultrasound revealed volumetric progression of a dominant thyroid nodule.
Findings:
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy was inconclusive for diagnosis.
- Histopathological examination of the surgical resection specimen confirmed thyroid tuberculosis.
- The case illustrates the diagnostic difficulties associated with thyroid TB.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare infections in thyroid pathology.
- Surgical intervention and subsequent histopathology are crucial for definitive diagnosis in ambiguous cases.
- Accurate diagnosis of thyroid TB is essential for appropriate management and patient outcomes.
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