Thyroglossal Cyst

Question 1

def

Answer 1

a thyroglossal cyst is a fibrous cyst commonly found in the neck midline which forms from a persistant thyroglossal duct

Question 2

aetiology

Answer 2

develops from cells and tissues which are left over after the formation of the thyroid gland during development

Question 3

epi

Answer 3

very common to present in children

Question 4

what are the two most common neck abnormalities

Answer 4

1 lymphadenopathy

2 thyroglossal duct cysts

Question 5

history

Answer 5

palpable non-tender mass in the midline of the neck

dysphagia (rare)

Question 6

examination

Answer 6

non-tender, smooth mass which moves on swallowing or protrusion of the tongue
there may by dysphagia or dyspepsia

Question 7

why does a thyroglossal cyst move on swallowing or protrusion of the tongue

Answer 7

it is attached to the tongue via the tract of thyroid descent

Question 8

what would a painful midline neck mass indicate

Answer 8

a thyroglossal duct cyst which is infected

Question 9

movement of a neck mass on swallowing or protusion of the tongue differentiates what two conditions

Answer 9

thyroglossal duct cyst

thyroid nodule

Question 10

investigations

Answer 10

USS

-anechoic midline mass (free from echo which indicates a cyst)