Intrathoracic Goiter Treated Through a Cervical Approach: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Endocrinology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Intrathoracic goiter (ITG) is an uncommon condition involving thyroid tissue in the mediastinum.
• Diagnosis can be challenging due to varied presentations and mimicry of other thoracic pathologies.

Observation:

• A 41-year-old female presented with dyspnea and an anterosuperior mediastinal mass, initially suspected as thymoma.
• Percutaneous biopsy confirmed thyroid tissue.

Findings:

• Complete resection of the intrathoracic goiter was achieved via a cervical surgical approach.
• Histopathology confirmed a benign goiter with follicular hyperplasia, ruling out malignancy.

Implications:

• Intrathoracic goiter should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal masses.
• The cervical approach is a safe and effective surgical option for selected ITG cases, potentially avoiding thoracotomy.