The Pan African Medical Journal (May 2017)

Ectopic thyroid tissue: unusual differential diagnosis of cervical paraganglioma

  • Houda Chahed,
  • Ghada Kharra,
  • Rim Bechraoui,
  • Jihene Marrakchi,
  • zza Mediouni,
  • Mohamed Ben Amor,
  • Rim Zainine,
  • Nejeh Beltaief,
  • Ghazi Besbes

DOI
https://doi.org/10.11604/pamj.2017.27.43.11495
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 27, no. 43

Abstract

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Ectopic thyroid tissue (ETT) lateral to the midline is rare. Its occurrence in the carotid bifurcation is exceptional. We present a 45 years woman who consulted with a slow growing right cervical swelling. Clinical examination Ultrasonography, contrast enhanced CT and cervical MRI concluded to a paraganglioma. Intra-operatively, the tumor didn't have the characteristic aspect of a paraganglioma. Complete excision was performed. Histology concluded to an ectopic micro-vesicular thyroid adenoma.Previous literature was reviewed to summarize clinical and radiologic characteristics of such rare entity. Despite its rarity, ETT must be included in the differential diagnosis of cervical paraganglioma.

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