Papillary carcinoma arising in a throglosal cyst with no associated thyroid lesion: An unusual case

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Thyroglossal cyst is the most common development anomaly of thyroid gland as well as it represents the most common congenital neck mass. Thyroglossal duct associated malignancy is very rare, and majority is papillary carcinoma. Case: A 21-year-old female presented with a painless midline neck swelling. There are no complaints of difficulty in swallowing, breathing, or voice changes. Ultrasonography revealed a multiloculated cystic lesion in midline neck region. The patient underwent Sistrunk procedure. Histopathology revealed foci of papillary carcinoma in association with thyroglossal duct cyst. Discussion: Thyroglossal duct cyst remains the most common anomaly of thyroid development. It is also the most common congenital neck swelling. The malignancy associated with thyroglossal duct cyst is very rare. Suspicion of malignancy may arise when the cyst appears irregular, hard, and fixed. Conclusion: In our case, the presence of papillary structures in thyroglossal duct support the diagnosis of papillary carcinoma arising from thyroglossal duct rather than a secondary tumor or metastasis from other organs such as thyroid gland. A diagnosis of papillary carcinoma in a thyroglossal duct cyst requires comprehensive surgical management and vigilant follow-up.