What is the Difference Between Thyroglossal Cyst and Goitre?

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The main difference between a thyroglossal cyst and a goitre lies in their formation, location, and movement with respect to tongue and swallowing movements.

Thyroglossal Cyst:

  • Formed from a persistent thyroglossal duct.
  • Presents as a midline neck lump, typically smooth and cystic.
  • Moves with the movement of the tongue.
  • Most common location is midline or slightly off midline, between the isthmus of the thyroid and the hyoid bone or just above the hyoid bone.

Goitre:

  • Formed due to swelling of the thyroid gland.
  • Presents as a lump at the front of the neck.
  • Moves with swallowing.
  • Located in the front part of the neck.

In summary, a thyroglossal cyst is a rare cyst in the throat that forms from the persistent thyroglossal duct and moves with the movement of the tongue, while a goitre is a lump at the front of the neck due to a swollen thyroid gland and moves with swallowing.

Comparative Table: Thyroglossal Cyst vs Goitre

Here is a table comparing the differences between thyroglossal cyst and goitre:

Feature Thyroglossal Cyst Goitre
Origin Formed due to a persistent thyroglossal duct Swollen thyroid gland
Location Neck or near the hyoid bone Front of the neck
Movement Moves with the tongue Moves with swallowing
Diagnostic Method FNAC, MRI, nuclear thyroid scan Physical examination, ultrasound
Treatment Surgery Depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy

Thyroglossal cyst is a rare cyst in the throat that forms from the persistent thyroglossal duct, while goitre is a lump at the front of the neck due to a swollen thyroid gland. Thyroglossal cyst moves with the movement of the tongue, whereas thyroid gland enlargement or goitre moves with swallowing.