Papillary Carcinoma of a Thyroglossal Cyst with Metastasis to Cervical Lymph Nodes Over A 10-Year Period. Case Report and Literature Review

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs) are the most common congenital neck masses in children. Malignant transformation is rare and occurs in about 1% of cases, with papillary carcinoma being the most prevalent subtype. This case report presents a 28-year-old male with a 10-year history of a midline neck mass that developed ulceration and necrotic discharge. Imaging suggested a neoplastic process. A palliative tumorectomy and lymph node biopsy were performed. Histopathology confirmed primary papillary thyroid carcinoma within the TGDC. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge and emphasizes the role of surgical intervention as definitive diagnosis and treatment.