LARGE THYROGLOSSAL DUCT CYST IN A 68-YEAR-OLD FEMALE: CASE REPORT

Background: Thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) is the most common congenital cervical anomaly, typically presenting in childhood or early adulthood. Its occurrence in elderly patients is uncommon and may pose diagnostic challenges, particularly when presenting with large size and compressive symptoms. Case Presentation: We report a 68-year-old female who presented with a progressively enlarging anterior neck mass associated with dysphagia and mild dyspnea. Clinical examination and imaging revealed a well-circumscribed midline cystic lesion measuring 8.4 × 4.5 × 2.7 cm. The mass demonstrated characteristic movement with swallowing and tongue protrusion. MRI confirmed a normally located thyroid gland and excluded other pathologies. Surgical excision using the Sistrunk procedure was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed a nodular thyroid follicular lesion within the cyst wall. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient remained asymptomatic with no recurrence at follow-up. Conclusion:TGDC, though rare in elderly individuals, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of midline neck masses. Large cysts may present with compressive symptoms, necessitating timely diagnosis and surgical management. The Sistrunk procedure remains the gold standard treatment, providing excellent outcomes with low recurrence rates.