Fig. 1
Potential location of a thyroglossal duct cyst (Source: Bryan Walters)
(c)
Some thyroglossal duct cysts contain thyroid tissue.
2.
Clinical findings:
(a)
History:
(i)
Painless lump which may change in size.
(ii)
If the cyst has been infected there may have been drainage.
(iii)
Rarely, hypothyroidism.
(b)
Physical:
(i)
Well-defined, solitary mass: Usually 1–3 cm.
(ii)
Located midline anterior neck, most commonly at the level of the hyoid; some may be higher or lower in the neck.
(iii)
Mass moves with swallowing.
(iv)
Palpation of a normal thyroid gland: may not be present.
3.
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Diagnosis:
(a)
Ultrasound: May help distinguish between dermoid cyst, lymph node, and thyroglossal cyst.
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