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Cystic thyroid lesions in children
A Yoskovitch1, J M Laberge, C Rodd
1Department of Otolaryngology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Quebec, Canada.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|July 11, 1998
Summary
Pediatric thyroid cysts can be malignant. Ultrasound is key for evaluation, while lab tests and radionuclide scans are less helpful. Mixed echogenicity lesions may indicate neoplasms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric endocrinology
- Thyroid pathology
- Diagnostic imaging
Background:
- Cystic thyroid lesions in children present a diverse spectrum, from benign to malignant.
- Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for pediatric thyroid masses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presentation and management of cystic thyroid lesions in pediatric patients.
- To determine the diagnostic utility of various imaging and laboratory tests.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric thyroid masses (1978-1996) with cystic components on ultrasound.
- Analysis of clinical presentation, family history, laboratory values, imaging, and pathology.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four pediatric patients (6-18 years) diagnosed with cystic thyroid lesions.
- Mixed solid-cystic lesions on ultrasound were more common (19/24) and associated with neoplasms.
- Pathology revealed follicular adenoma (9), cystic degeneration (6), goiter (4), and carcinoma (2).
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound is valuable for evaluating pediatric cystic thyroid masses.
- Laboratory and radionuclide imaging have limited value.
- Mixed echogenicity lesions warrant further investigation as they may represent malignant neoplasms.
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