thyroglossal duct cyst
Also written as: TGC — thyroglossal duct cyst
Congenital cervical cyst arising from remnants of the embryonic thyroglossal duct during thyroid development.
Full Definition
A thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common congenital neck mass, resulting from persistent remnants of the thyroglossal duct that normally disappears during fetal thyroid development. These cysts can occur anywhere along the path of thyroid descent from the tongue base to the lower neck, with the hyoid bone region being most frequent. The characteristic clinical finding is a midline neck mass that moves with swallowing and tongue protrusion. Treatment involves complete surgical excision including the central portion of the hyoid bone (Sistrunk procedure) to prevent recurrence.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as TGC; always specify 'duct' to distinguish from other thyroglossal anomalies.
In Context
- "The thyroglossal duct cyst moved characteristically with swallowing and tongue protrusion." — physical examination note
- "Complete excision of the thyroglossal duct cyst requires removal of the central hyoid bone." — surgical procedure note