Presentations of thyroglossal duct cysts in adults

The thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common congenital neck mass, resulti ng from persistence and dilatation of remnants of an epithelial tract forme d during migration of the thyroid during embryogenesis. Approximately 7% of the population has thyroglossal duct remnants. Although thyroglossal duct cysts generally present clinically in children, it is important to understa nd that the lesion can present in adults as well, sometimes much later in L ife. Incidental carcinoma of the thyroglossal duct cyst is rare, but is mor e likely to occur in adults than children. Between 1991 and 1998, 11 cases of thyroglossal duct cysts were seen in adult patients at Georgetown Univer sity Medical Center, including 2 cases containing papillary carcinoma. This report discusses their clinical presentations and management.