Lateral neck ectopic papillary thyroid carcinoma: A rare case report

Ectopic thyroid tissue (ETT) occurs due to abnormal embryogenesis of the thyroid gland. Ectopic thyroid tissue is susceptible to all the processes that affect normal thyroid tissue, including malignant transformation. Malignancy of ectopic thyroid tissue is known as the exceedingly rare phenomenon of ectopic thyroid carcinoma (ETC).

A 97-year old female presented with an ulcerated, hemorrhagic lateral neck mass that had been present for years prior to her visit. The mass was initially misdiagnosed as a haemangioma. During the surgical procedure, the operating surgeons discovered hallmark signs pointing towards malignancy. Histopathology of a biopsy taken from the mass confirmed the diagnosis of ectopic thyroid carcinoma (ETC). The patient was discharged in good condition and did not require further intervention.

The presence of ectopic thyroid carcinoma in the lateral neck is an extremely scarce finding. Medical literature details multiple modalities of diagnosis. We discuss similar cases and provide a comparison of currently applied diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

Thus far, no consensus has been reached regarding the optimal treatment or diagnosis of ectopic thyroid cancer, mainly due to their scarcity within the literature. As with most malignancies, early diagnosis is of great importance in order to ensure better outcomes. Individualised treatment options remain the cornerstone of the treatment of ETCs. More research is needed to outline practical tests to calibrate treatment in future cases.