Thyroglossal cyst (cyst of the neck)

Neck | Dermatology | Thyroglossal cyst (cyst of the neck) (Disease)


Description

Thyroglossal cysts represent the most common congenital anomaly of the neck. Thyroglossal cysts (TGCs) arise from a persistent epithelial tract. During fetal development, the thyroid gland migrates from the throat to the bottom of the neck. As it moves, it can drag other throat tissue along with it. This tissue can form cysts during childhood.

Symptoms can arise from the swelling itself or from complications, the most significant of which is infection.

Causes and Risk factors

Thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common cause of congenital neck swelling. It may be found in as many as 7% of the population. Most commonly, they present in the first decade of life. However, they are also seen in adults.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Thyroglossal cysts (TGCs) should be surgically removed. This is because: surgery provides a pathological diagnosis.

Infection can cause acute pain and other complications (including airway obstruction and dysphagia). They can cause cosmetic deformity. Very rarely, malignancy may occur. ...