Evaluation and management of a carcinoma arising in a thyroglossal duct cyst

Thyroglossal duct remnants are the most common congenital cystic lesions of the neck; however, a carcinoma arising in these structures is rare. Two new cases of a papillary adenocarcinoma arising in a thyroglossal duct cyst are presented. Preoperative evaluation, operative management, and postoperative care are discussed. Initial evaluation consisting of a thorough head and neck examination, palpation of the thyroid gland, thyroid function tests, and selective use of thyroid imaging is recommended. Removal of the cyst and tract in the manner described by Sistrunk is advocated. If an adenocarcinoma is found in the cyst and if a carcinoma is found in the thyroid gland or a thyroid scan reveals a nodule, a total thyroidectomy is recommended. A modified neck dissection and total thyroidectomy is advocated for cervical metastases. Postoperatively, thyroid suppression and long-term follow-up are encouraged. A squamous cell carcinoma arising in a thyroglossal duct remnant appears more aggressive and requires complete excision and, for confirmed cervical metastases, radical neck dissection and postoperative radiation therapy.