Ultrasound characteristics of thyroglossal duct anomalies.

The purpose of this study was to determine the value of ultrasound examination in the diagnosis of thyroglossal duct anomalies. The ultrasound and palpation findings in 24 patients with a thyroglossal duct anomaly were reviewed. Cysts, tracts and ectopic thyroid tissue appeared to produce a characteristic ultrasound pattern in most cases. This study includes 5 patients with non-symptomatic lesions which were detected at ultrasound examination. The necessity of performing a radionuclide scan prior to surgery for a thyroglossal duct anomaly is reconsidered in view of the diagnostic power of ultrasound in thyroid disease.