Malignant transformation of a thyroglossal duct cyst located in the preepiglottic space: A case report and literature review.

OBJECTIVE

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDC) are the most common tumors occurring in the midline and anterior neck regions and may affect swallowing function, infection, and even malignant transformation. The incidence of malignant transformation in thyroglossal duct cysts is very low, at approximately 1 %. Thyroglossal duct cysts extending into or occupying the pre-epiglottic space are extremely rare.

CASE SERIES PRESENTATION: A 37-year-old male developed papillary thyroid carcinoma originating from thyroglossal duct cysts that occupied the pre-epiglottic space. The tumor was successfully resected using a modified Sistrunk procedure. The relevant literature was reviewed.

CONCLUSION

Malignant transformation of thyroglossal duct cysts may occur at any site. Malignancy can be suggested by preoperative ultrasound and imaging examinations, thereby necessitating clinical vigilance.