User:Mr. Ibrahem/Thyroglossal cyst

A thyroglossal cyst is a cyst that forms from a persistent thyroglossal duct. The cyst is generally easily movable and most commonly occurs in the mid-line of the neck. Most commonly they present near the hyoid bone, though it may occur anywhere from the base of the tongue to the lower part of the neck. Complications can include infection, fistula, or cancer.

It develops from tissues left over after the formation of the thyroid gland during early development. Diagnosis is usually by ultrasound. Other conditions that can present similarly include lymphadenopathy, dermoid cysts, and second branchial cleft cysts.

Treatment is generally by surgical removal, along with a part of the hyoid bone and small part of the tongue. This should be carried out when infection is not present. Following removal, thyroid hormone replacement may occasionally be required. If only the cyst itself is removed, there is a 50% risk of recurrence.

About 7% of people are affected. Males and females are affected equally frequently. They most commonly became apparent during childhood, though sometimes are only discovered in adulthood. The thyroglossal duct was first described by Vater in 1723 while the current treatment was developed in the early 1900s.