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Non-Contiguous Double Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: A Case Report
Baogang Wang1, Bo Sun1, Shujun Li1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Xijing 986 Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an China.
Clinical Case Reports
|August 6, 2026
Summary
This study reports a rare case of non-contiguous double thyroglossal duct cysts (TDCs) in an adult male. The findings challenge current understanding of TDC embryology and surgical approaches.
Area of Science:
- Embryology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDCs) are typically solitary lesions arising from a persistent embryological thyroglossal duct.
- While multiple TDCs are rare, they are usually anatomically connected.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of non-contiguous double TDCs.
- To discuss the implications for understanding thyroglossal duct embryology and surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 50-year-old male with two discrete TDC locations.
- Surgical excision and pathological confirmation of both lesions.
Main Results:
- Identification of two anatomically separate TDCs: one in the left vallecula and another in the infrahyoid region.
- No interconnecting tract was found between the cysts.
- Pathological confirmation of both lesions as TDCs.
Conclusions:
- This case presents a novel anatomical configuration of non-contiguous double TDCs, challenging conventional embryological theories.
- Highlights the need for surgeons to consider and manage potentially independent thyroglossal duct remnants.
- Suggests potential modifications to the standard Sistrunk procedure for complete resection of non-contiguous lesions.
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