Thyroglossal cysts Flashcards
Define thyroglossal cyst
An epithelium-lined cyst found along the course of descent of the thyroid gland
Explain the aetiology/risk factors of thyroglossal cysts
The thyroglossal duct is an embryonic remnant
of the path of descent of the thyroid gland from the mouth down to its normal position during development
The duct normally disappears in the 6th week, but if some tissue remains, it could develop into a cyst
Risk Factors
RARE familial variant
Summarise the epidemiology of thyroglossal cysts
Present in CHILDREN and ADOLESCENTS
Mean age of presentation:5 yrs
3 x more common than branchial cyst
Recognise the presenting symptoms of thyroglossal cysts
A swelling/lump is noticed in the midline of the
anterior neck
Usually ASYMPTOMATIC
May be tenderness or rapid enlargement due to
infection
Recognise the signs of thyroglossal cysts on physical
examination
Midline, smooth, rounded swelling
Typically found between the thyroid notch and the hyoid bone
Moves upwards on protrusion of the tongue
Moves upwards with swallowing
Can be transilluminated
Differential Diagnosis
Lymph node
Dermoid cyst
Ectopic thyroid tissue
Identify appropriate investigations for thyroglossal cysts
NONE may be necessary if the patient is euthyroid
If the cyst is suprahyoid, TFTs should be performed to exclude a lingual thyroid - because removal of the lingual thyroid will make the patient hypothyroid
Ultrasound/MRI - Helps differentiate from other structure
