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Intralaryngeal ectopic thyroid.
Tomasz Zatoński1, Marek Bolanowski2, Diana Jędrzejuk2
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University in Wrocław, Head: Tomasz Kręcicki, Poland.
Otolaryngologia Polska = the Polish Otolaryngology
|February 4, 2014
Summary
Ectopic thyroid tissue in the larynx is rare, unlike common lingual thyroid presentations. This case highlights a subglottic tumor diagnosed as struma nodosa, emphasizing the need for awareness of rare thyroid presentations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
Background:
- Ectopic thyroid tissue can occur in various locations, with lingual thyroid being the most common.
- Laryngeal localization of ectopic thyroid tissue is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old woman presented with progressive dyspnea and a nodular thyroid goiter.
- Endoscopic and CT imaging revealed a subglottic tumor on the right side of the larynx, causing infraglottic stenosis.
Findings:
- Biopsy confirmed the subglottic tumor as Struma nodosa, a form of ectopic thyroid tissue.
- Literature review identified only seven previously described cases of laryngeal ectopic thyroid tissue.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare ectopic thyroid presentations in the differential diagnosis of laryngeal masses and airway obstruction.
- Understanding the developmental origins of thyroid ectopy is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
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