Non-functional parathyroid cyst masquerading as a thyroid cyst: Report of two cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Parathyroid cysts are rare and can pose a diagnostic challenge. We describe two cases of patients who presented with cystic anterior neck masses and underwent hemithyroidectomy for clinically and radiologically presumed thyroid cysts. The final diagnosis was only established postoperatively on histological examination. A review of the literature on parathyroid cysts and a discussion of suggested management for suspected cases are included.

Keywords

• Parathyroid cyst
• anterior neck swelling
• goitre