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Author Spotlight: Integrating Ultrasound Imaging with Biochemical Markers for Thyroid Disease Diagnosis
Published on: February 9, 2024
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Thyroid Foramen: Prevalence and CT Morphology
Soma Kumasaka1, Yasuhiro Fukushima2, Daisuke Ozaki3
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan (S.K., Y.K., Y.T.).
Academic Radiology
|September 9, 2025
Summary
The thyroid foramen (TF), an anatomical variant of the thyroid cartilage, occurs in 25.7% of individuals. Recognizing this common finding on CT scans is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and surgical complications.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The thyroid foramen (TF) is a congenital anatomical variant of the thyroid cartilage.
- It can be mistaken for fractures or tumors, posing diagnostic and surgical challenges.
- TF is currently under-recognized in routine radiological practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of the thyroid foramen (TF) in the population.
- To describe the morphological characteristics of TF using computed tomography (CT).
- To highlight the clinical significance of TF in radiological interpretation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 300 noncontrast, thin-slice neck CT scans.
- Definition of TF as a well-demarcated opening in the posterior thyroid cartilage.
- Consensus evaluation by two experienced radiologists documenting TF presence, shape, laterality, and size.
Main Results:
- Thyroid foramen (TF) was identified in 25.7% of patients (77/300).
- TF prevalence was higher in males (27.8%) than females (22.6%), not statistically significant.
- Mean TF dimensions were 3.1mm (long axis) and 2.6mm (short axis), larger in males.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid foramen (TF) is a common anatomical variant (25.7% prevalence) identifiable on thin-slice CT.
- Increased awareness of TF is essential for radiologists to avoid misdiagnosis.
- Recognizing TF can prevent potential surgical complications related to the thyroid cartilage.
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