Unusual Lateral Presentation of Thyroglossal Duct Cyst in a 30 Year Old Male: A Case Report

Background: Thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) is the most common congenital anterior neck mass, typically presenting in the paediatric age group as a painless midline swelling. The diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by imaging modalities and fine needle aspiration cytology for confirmation and exclusion of other pathologies. Classically, TGDC presents as a midline neck swelling that moves with deglutition and tongue protrusion; however, atypical presentations can cause diagnostic uncertainty. Case Presentation: In this case report, we describe an atypical presentation of thyroglossal duct cyst in an adult patient presenting with lateral neck swelling. The case highlights the importance of considering TGDC in the differential diagnosis of lateral neck masses and emphasizes the role of detailed preoperative assessment. The patient was successfully managed with surgical excision using the Sistrunk procedure, with favourable outcome. Conclusion: Though TGDC may occur at any age, a newly appearing lateral neck mass in adults warrants careful evaluation to exclude neoplastic causes. Rarely, TGDC may present in an unusual location or with acute onset due to infection or rapid enlargement.