Malignant degeneration of thyroglossal duct cysts: Clinical aspects, imaging findings and management: Case series.

Introduction And Importance: Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDCs) are congenital anomalies that can rarely undergo malignant transformation, with approximately 1 % of operated TDCs demonstrating malignant degeneration. Therapeutic management and follow-up methods are still controversial subjects.

Case Series Presentation: We report 3 cases of a papillary carcinoma of thyroid occurring in a thyroglossal duct cyst. The diagnosis was suspected preoperatively in 2 patients, hence the indication of frozen section examination. All patients underwent Sistrunk procedure associated with total thyroidectomy and central neck dissection. Concomitant papillary thyroid carcinoma was found in 2 patients. A complementary treatment by radioactive iodine 131 with frenetic hormone therapy was undertaken in all the cases. The follow-up showed no recurrence.

Clinical Discussion: The clinical presentation of thyroglossal duct cyst carcinoma is often nonspecific, posing challenges in early diagnosis. The chosen treatment strategy, involving the Sistrunk procedure, total thyroidectomy, and central neck dissection, along with adjuvant therapy using radioactive iodine 131 and frenetic hormone therapy, was effective in preventing recurrence.

Conclusion: The management of degenerated TDC is based on a multidisciplinary approach. Papillary carcinomas of TDC generally have a good prognosis.