Multinodular goitre arising in the tracheal lumen: implantation or ectopic?

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Endocrinology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Multinodular goitre is a common thyroid condition.
• Thyroid tissue is typically confined to the neck region.
• Surgical complications can lead to unusual anatomical findings.

Observation:

• A 79-year-old woman presented with dyspnea caused by a tracheal tumor.
• The tumor was identified as a multinodular goitre within the trachea.
• The patient had a history of subtotal thyroidectomy 40 years prior.

Findings:

• Histopathology confirmed multinodular goitre originating from intra-tracheal thyroid tissue.
• This represents the first reported instance of tracheal thyroid tissue implantation leading to goitre.
• Surgical intervention involved cricotracheal resection and anastomosis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for iatrogenic implantation of thyroid tissue during surgery.
• Careful surgical technique is crucial to avoid implanting thyroid tissue in ectopic locations.
• Awareness of this rare complication is important for surgeons and pathologists.