Conservative management of ectopic thyroid tissue – Real-world experience

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ectopic thyroid is a rare disorder with a prevalence estimated at around 1 in 100,000–300,000. However, the debate remains as to whether this disorder is amenable to medical management or should surgery be considered for these patients. This study aimed to determine how medical therapy impacts the progression of this disorder. Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective observational study, evaluating a total 21 subjects with a follow-up for 12 months on medical conservative therapy. Results: The average size reduction in the largest diameter for overt hypothyroidism patients at the end of 12 months of follow-up after reaching euthyroid status was 48.2%, for subclinical hypothyroidism was 34.1% and 36% for hyperthyroid patients. The most common sites were lingual and sublingual ectopic thyroid. Conclusion: Ectopic thyroid is a rare congenital anomaly which requires surgical management if presenting with obstructive symptoms such as dysphagia. However, in patients without such symptoms, medical management with the achievement of euthyroid status may help in the size reduction of the ectopic tissue.