Ectopic Thyroid Tissue

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What is Ectopic Thyroid Tissue?

Ectopic thyroid tissue refers to thyroid tissue that is located outside its usual anatomical position in the neck, typically due to developmental abnormalities during fetal growth. The most common site is the base of the tongue (lingual thyroid), but it can also occur along the thyroglossal duct tract, or even in the chest or under the jaw.

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Causes

  • Embryological migration failure of thyroid tissue from the base of the tongue to the neck

  • Often associated with thyroid dysgenesis or congenital hypothyroidism

  • May be functioning (produces hormones) or non-functioning

Common Locations

  • Lingual thyroid (at the base of the tongue)

  • Sublingual or submandibular area

  • Thyroglossal duct remnants

  • Mediastinum (rare)

Symptoms

  • Neck or tongue swelling

  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

  • Hoarseness or voice changes

  • Obstructed breathing, especially during infections

  • Signs of hypothyroidism if ectopic tissue is the only functioning thyroid

Diagnosis in Ghaziabad

  • Thyroid function tests (T3, T4, TSH)

  • Neck ultrasound

  • Radioisotope thyroid scan (to locate functional tissue)

  • MRI or CT scan (for deeper or unusual locations)

  • Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) if mass is suspicious

Treatment Options

  • Observation – for asymptomatic and hormone-producing ectopic tissue

  • Hormone therapy – to suppress TSH and reduce tissue size in hypothyroid patients

  • Surgical removal – if the tissue causes obstruction, cosmetic concern, or malignancy is suspected

  • Replacement therapy – lifelong thyroxine if surgery is performed or if no other thyroid tissue is present

Why Choose Us?

  • Experienced endocrine and head-neck surgery team

  • Advanced imaging and lab facilities in Ghaziabad

  • Safe and precise surgical intervention when needed

  • Complete follow-up and hormonal monitoring

If you or your child has neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, or abnormal thyroid hormone levels, early detection of ectopic thyroid tissue is essential. Contact us today for expert care and treatment in Ghaziabad.