Papillary carcinoma in thyroglossal duct cyst: role of fine needle aspiration and frozen section biopsy to guide surgical approach

摘要

Thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common anomaly in the embryogenesis of the thyroid gland [1]. However, carcinoma is uncommon, occurring in ~ 1 % of all thyroglossal duct cysts, particularly papillary carcinoma [1, 2]. Although controversial, it is proposed that Sistrunk's operation should be followed by total thyroidectomy [1]. 20 % of the papillary carcinomas in thyroglossal duct cysts may present concomitant thyroid cancer. Therefore, pre-operative identification of papillary carcinoma in the thyroglossal duct cyst would allow an appropriated decision on the extension of surgery. We describe clinical features and diagnostic evaluations of benign and malignant thyroglossal duct cysts followed in the same institution.