| Thyroglossal cyst | |
|---|---|
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| Thyroglossal cyst | |
| Specialty | Medical genetics |
A thyroglossal cyst or thyroglossal duct cyst is a fibrous cyst that forms from a persistent thyroglossal duct. Thyroglossal cysts can be defined as an irregular neck mass or a lump which develops from cells and tissues left over after the formation of the thyroid gland during developmental stages.[1]
Thyroglossal cysts are the most common cause of midline neck masses and are generally located caudal to (below) the hyoid bone. These neck masses can occur anywhere along the path of the thyroglossal duct, from the base of the tongue to the suprasternal notch.[2] Other common causes of midline neck masses include lymphadenopathy, dermoid cysts, and various odontogenic anomalies.[2]
Thyroglossal cysts develop at birth. Many diagnostic procedures may be used to establish the degree of the cyst.
- ^ University of Rochester Medical Center. (2015). Thyroglossal duct cyst. Retrieved from http://www.urmc.rochester.edu
- ^ a b Deaver M. J.; Silman E. F.; Lotfipour S. (2009). "Infected thyroglossal duct cyst". Western Journal of Emergency Medicine. 10 (3): 205. PMC 2729228. PMID 19718389.