# Thyroglossal duct cyst

> A common cause of a swelling in the exact midline of the neck: the thyroglossal duct cyst. Its diagnosis and the operation that prevents recurrence.

Source: https://www.profaysenurmerichafiz.com/blog/thyroglossal-duct-cyst/  
Updated: 2026-09-30

Blog · [Neck](https://www.profaysenurmerichafiz.com/blog/#neck)

By: [Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız](https://www.profaysenurmerichafiz.com/about/) · Translated from the original Turkish article.

Diagram A thyroglossal duct cyst sits in the midline of the neck, between the hyoid bone and the thyroid, and moves on swallowing.

A thyroglossal duct cyst develops when the duct along which the thyroid normally migrates in the womb, from the base of the tongue to the area where the thyroid sits, fails to close at some point along its course. This duct passes through the hyoid bone. It appears as a swelling exactly in the midline of the neck. Rarely, thyroid cancer can develop within it. Patients present with a mass in the midline of the neck that does not hurt. Following an upper respiratory tract infection, the cyst becomes infected and begins to grow. The mass can be seen to move when the tongue is stuck out. It can easily be diagnosed with ultrasound and MRI. In highly suspicious cases, the swelling can be entered under ultrasound guidance and a biopsy taken. The cyst and its duct are removed surgically together with the hyoid bone. Failure to remove the hyoid bone leads to recurrence.

[Read more in Treatment areasThyroglossal Duct Cysts](https://www.profaysenurmerichafiz.com/treatments/neck-cysts/thyroglossal-duct-cysts/)

The outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; consult your doctor for an assessment specific to you.

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