An uncommon cause of dysphagia

J Family Med Prim Care. 2019 Mar;8(3):1282-1283. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2_19.

Abstract

Lingual thyroid is an abnormal mass of ectopic thyroid tissue seen in the base of tongue caused due to aberrant embryological development. It is often asymptomatic but may cause local symptoms, such as dysphagia, dysphonia, and upper airway obstruction. In this case, we report a 13-year-old girl who presented with dysphagia and breathing difficulty. Local examination revealed thyroid tissue in the posterior aspect of the tongue. Thyroid scintigraphy showed abnormal tracer uptake at base of tongue. Hormonal test showed subclinical hypothyroidism. She was treated with Levothyroxine.

Keywords: Dysphagia; Tc-99m scintigraphy; lingual thyroid.

Publication types

  • Case Reports