From the Research
Significance of a Thyroid Lobe Cyst
- A thyroid lobe cyst can be a significant finding, as it may be associated with malignant tumors, such as papillary carcinoma 1.
- The presence of a cystic lesion in the thyroid gland can be evaluated using fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), which can help diagnose benign or malignant conditions 2, 3.
- In some cases, a thyroid lobe cyst can be an intra-thyroid thyroglossal duct cyst, which is a rare condition that can be diagnosed using FNAB and treated surgically 4, 3.
- Cystic thyroid lesions in children can be a heterogeneous group of disease states, ranging from benign to malignant tumors, and require careful evaluation and management 5.
Diagnostic Evaluation
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating cystic thyroid lesions, and can help diagnose benign or malignant conditions 2, 3.
- Ultrasonography can be used to evaluate the characteristics of the cyst, such as its size and location, and can help guide FNAB 4, 5.
- Radionuclide imaging can be used to evaluate the functional status of the thyroid gland, but may not be as useful in evaluating cystic lesions 5.
Treatment Options
- Surgical resection is a common treatment option for thyroid lobe cysts, particularly if malignancy is suspected or confirmed 1, 3.
- A Sistrunk procedure, which includes removal of the median portion of the hyoid bone, may be necessary if a thyroglossal duct tract is present 1, 3.
- Observation, aspiration, or cyst sclerosis may be considered for benign cystic lesions, but surgical resection may be necessary if the cyst is large or symptomatic 5.