Navigating a Giant Thyroglossal cyst: A Compelling Case Study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Pathology
• Embryology

Background:

• Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDC) arise from incomplete involution of the thyroglossal duct during embryogenesis.
• These congenital neck cysts can present as large masses, causing symptoms like dysphagia and voice changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of a large, long-standing thyroglossal duct cyst in an adult male.
• To illustrate the efficacy of the Sistrunk procedure in managing complex TGDC cases.

Main Methods:

• Clinical diagnosis based on patient history, fine-needle aspiration biopsy, and radiographic findings.
• Surgical treatment utilizing the Sistrunk procedure, including dissection of the posterior hyoid space.

Main Results:

• A 55-year-old male with an 11 x 8.5 cm anterior neck mass diagnosed as TGDC was successfully treated.
• The patient experienced no recurrence or post-operative morbidity during a 3-year follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• The Sistrunk procedure remains the standard of care for thyroglossal duct cysts.
• This case demonstrates the long-term efficacy and safety of the Sistrunk procedure, even for large and long-standing TGDCs.