Lingual thyroid in adults: management algorithm based on swallowing outcomes

To review the presentation, workup, and functional outcomes of adult patients diagnosed with lingual thyroid treated by transoral subtotal excision. These results were then used to formulate a management algorithm.

Retrospective chart review (2001-2008).

Tertiary care academic hospital.

All patients diagnosed with a lingual thyroid as an adult were identified in the University of Alberta's head and neck mass database. Charts were reviewed for initial presentation, diagnostic methods, radiographic findings, and treatment and follow-up results.

Transoral subtotal excision of lingual thyroid tissue.

Postoperative swallowing function as measured by pharyngeal residue and aspiration on videofluoroscopic swallowing studies.

Five patients with lingual thyroids meeting the study criteria were identified. All were females aged 29 to 58 years (mean 44 years). Presentations ranged from asymptomatic to acute airway obstruction. Diagnosis was made with flexible nasopharyngoscopy, thyroid scintigraphy, and computed tomography. All patients underwent transoral subtotal excision of their thyroids with either a CO2 laser or electrocautery. Two patients complained of residual symptoms and received adjunctive 131I, which led to symptom resolution. Pathologic evaluation revealed benign thyroid tissue. Swallowing function remained efficacious and safe in all patients, as shown by a lack of aspiration and low pharyngeal residue scores. These results were used to propose a management algorithm for the spectrum of adult-diagnosed lingual thyroid presentations.

Transoral subtotal excision of lingual thyroid glands provides adequate resection of the lesion with good postoperative swallowing function. When appropriate, this is advocated as the treatment modality of choice.