The thyroid duct cyst is a tissue cyst that usually forms early in embryonic development and is associated with the formation of the thyroid gland.As the thyroid gland moves gradually downward to the neck from the base of the tongue, a portion of the thyroid canal may be left behind, and over time, these remaining tissues may form cysts.According to medical data, this cyst is the most common cause of midline neck mass, usually below the hyoid bone and may occur anywhere along the thyroid tongue canal, including from the base of the tongue to the supramia of the sternum.
"Thyroid tongue cysts are present at birth, but many patients are not diagnosed until adulthood."
The thyroid tongue cyst usually occurs as a painless midline neck lump that usually moves when swallowing or sticking out the tongue because it connects to the tongue through the descending thyroid tract.The patient may experience neck or throat pain and even dysphagia.In rare cases, cysts may be infected due to accumulation of oral secretions, which can lead to temporary enlargement of the masses or the discharge of large amounts of fluid, which forces patients to face additional medical troubles.
"According to reports, up to half of cases of thyroid cysts have not been diagnosed early."
Infection of thyroid duct cyst is a major complication and the possibility of infection will increase if untreated.During infection, the tissue around the cyst will swell, which may lead to respiratory obstruction or swallowing problems, as the rapid enlargement of the cyst may affect the normal function of the surrounding tissue.When a patient is infected, he may find fluid discharge on the neck, and medical intervention is required immediately.
In some cases, thyroid duct cysts may accidentally rupture, forming a so-called thyroid duct fistula.This usually occurs during the removal of the cyst, resulting in local fluid discharge and swelling.Such complications need to be diagnosed and dealt with in a timely manner to avoid worsening of the situation.
Although extremely rare, less than 1% of cases of thyroid duct cysts may develop into cancer, often presenting as papillary thyroid cancer, which originate from ectopic thyroid tissue within the cyst.
Although thyroid cysts are usually benign, surgical removal is required if breathing or swallowing is present, or if an infection is present.Even if there are no obvious symptoms, your doctor may recommend removal to prevent potential future infections or cancer.
"Sistrunk surgery is considered the best surgical option, which reduces recurrence rates by removing cysts and their surrounding tissues."
According to observations, 90% of cases occur in children under the age of 10, and thyroid tongue cyst is the second common cause of neck abnormalities, second only to lymphatic hyperplasia.About 7% of the population may have residues of the thyroid tongue duct.Whether these cysts can be avoided from further development into serious health problems is a continuing concern.
The health risks of thyroid duct cysts and their potential complications need to be paid attention to.Regular examinations and early diagnosis are key to reducing the incidence of complications.Have you ever thought about whether there are similar health risks hidden in your body?