Subglottic thyroglossal duct cyst: a rare intralaryngeal presentation

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDCs) are common congenital anomalies presenting as midline neck masses.
• Typically, TDCs are located below the hyoid bone, following the thyroglossal duct's embryological descent.
• Rarely, TDCs can occur along ectopic sites, including the larynx, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

• A 30-year-old male presented with a subglottic mass and laryngeal symptoms.
• Imaging and clinical evaluation revealed a thyroglossal duct cyst in the subglottic region.
• This presentation is highly unusual, with only two prior pediatric cases reported.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with a subglottic thyroglossal duct cyst, a rare entity.
• This represents the first documented case of a subglottic TDC in an adult patient.
• The diagnosis was confirmed through clinical presentation, imaging, and subsequent management.

Implications:

• Subglottic thyroglossal duct cysts require a high index of suspicion for accurate diagnosis in adults.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to prevent airway compromise.
• This case expands the known spectrum of TDC presentations and informs clinical practice.