Thyroglossal cyst
Benign (non-cancerous) lump in the thyroid gland
HCA UK's experts can help to diagnose and treat a range of cysts, including thyroglossal cysts
About
The thyroid gland starts at the back of the tongue and then migrates down the neck during development, leaving the thyroglossal duct (tract). Normally this duct would disappear, but it can remain and cause swellings to develop (known as thryoglossal cysts).
Need to know
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Symptoms of thyroglossal cysts icon plus
Thyroglossal cysts are usually painless and move only when you swallow or stick out your tongue. However, sometimes the fluid or mucus-filled cysts (lumps) can become inflamed, which leads to noticeable swelling. Thyroglossal cysts are usually benign and very rarely become malignant (cancerous).However, you should always go to your GP or consultant if you have any swelling in your neck.
The most common symptoms of thyroglossal cysts that need to be removed are:
- swelling/lump in the midline of the neck
- recurrent infection
- pain or discomfort in the throat
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
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Diagnosis icon plus
Thyroglossal cysts can be diagnosed in several ways. Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. Tests they recommend may include:
- blood test (to determine how well the thyroid gland is working)
- biopsy (a small sample of cells may be taken from the thyroglossal cyst and examined under a microscope)
- ultrasound of the thyroid and thyroglossal cyst
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Treatment options for thyroglossal cysts depend on the extent of the condition and your overall health and fitness.
These may include:
- antibiotics to treat infection
- surgery to remove the thyroglossal duct and cyst (known as the Sistrunk procedure), which is performed under general anaesthetic
Our consultants
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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Chiswick Medical Centre
Bond House
347-353 Chiswick High Road
London W4 4HS
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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HCA UK City of London - 120 Old Broad Street
London
EC2N 1AR
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344