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.
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.
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
