Causes and risk factors
Thyroglossal cyst is a congenital anomaly. It may occur at later age. It occurs in 6 different forms such as infrahyoid mostly in paramedian position, suprahyoid found in the midline, juxtahyoid found close to the hyoid bone, intralingual found within the tongue, intralaryngeal, and suprasternal.
Clinical presentation
The cyst presents as a midline swelling commonly seen at the thyroid level. It may present below or above this level. The swelling moves upwards on swallowing and on protruding the tongue out. The mass is usually nontender and mobile. It may be associated with dysphagia, dysphonia, or draining sinus. Upper respiratory tract infection is common. It may cause an airway obstruction. A thyroglossal fistula may develop from an infected cyst, which has been ruptured or incised.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine hemogram, thyroid function tests are performed. USG is required. CT scan may be useful for further evaluation.
Treatment
Treatment involves complete surgical excision of the cyst including the body of the hyoid bone [Sistrunk’s operation]. Anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics may be prescribed for symptomatic relief.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating thyroglossal cyst. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating thyroglossal cyst.
