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Lingual thyroglossal duct cyst presenting in infancy
M Samuel1, N V Freeman, M J Sajwany
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Lingual thyroglossal duct cysts are rare intraoral swellings. This report details two infant cases, highlighting their unique presentation and successful surgical management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Otolaryngology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDCs) are congenital anomalies arising from remnants of the thyroglossal duct.
- While typically found in the neck, lingual TDCs located within the tongue base are exceptionally rare.
- Infantile presentations of lingual TDCs causing significant airway and feeding issues are not well-documented.
Observation:
- Two infants, aged 10 and 12 weeks, presented with midline intraoral cystic masses.
- The cysts extended from the base of the tongue to the thyroid cartilage, causing symptoms such as dysphagia and stridor.
- These lingual thyroglossal duct cysts were large enough to potentially cause respiratory distress and failure to thrive.
Findings:
- Both infants underwent complete excision of the lingual cysts using the Sistrunk's procedure.
- Postoperative follow-up at 6 months showed complete recovery and well-being in both patients.
- The unique presentation in terms of infant age, intraoral location, and severity of symptoms is noteworthy.
Implications:
- This case series expands the understanding of lingual thyroglossal duct cyst presentations in neonates and infants.
- It underscores the importance of considering rare intraoral masses in infants with feeding and respiratory difficulties.
- Successful surgical intervention, such as the Sistrunk's procedure, offers a favorable outcome for these rare pediatric conditions.