Thyroglossal cysts

Question 1

Define thyroglossal cysts

Answer 1

Epithelium lined cyst found along the course of descent of the thyroid gland

Question 2

Aetiology of thyroglossal cysts

2

Answer 2

The thyroglossal duct is an embryonic remnant of the path of descent of the thyroid gland from the mouth down to its normal position in development
Duct normally disappears in the 6th week, but if some tissue remains it can develop into a cyst

Question 3

Risk factor for thyroglossal cysts

Answer 3

RARE familial variants

Question 4

Epidemiology of thyroglossal cysts

age x2, comparative prevalence

Answer 4

Present in children & adolescents
Mean age of presentation 5 yrs
3x more common than branchial cysts

Question 5

Presenting symptoms of thyroglossal cysts

3

Answer 5

Swelling/lump is noticed in midline of anterior neck
Usually ASYMPTOMATIC
May be tenderness or rapid enlargement due to infection

Question 6

Signs of thyroglossal cysts on physical examination

4

Answer 6

Midline, smooth, rounded swelling
Typically found between thyroid notch & hyoid bone
Move upwards on protrusion of tongue or with swallowing
Can be transilluminated

Question 7

Differential diagnosis for thyroglossal cysts

3

Answer 7

Lymph node
Dermoid cyst
Ectopic thyroid tissue

Question 8

Investigations for thyroglossal cysts

general + 2

Answer 8

NONE may be necessary if patient is euthyroid

If cyst is suprahyoid, TFTs should be performed to exclude lingual thyroid - removal would make patient hypothyroid

US/MRI - to differentiate from other structures