Multiple cysts of thyroid

This middle aged female patient has multiple small cysts of the thyroid. Each of 3 to 4 mm size, totally 4 in number.

Incidental finding on thyroid sonography. 

Findings: 4 small cysts of the right lobe and isthmus of thyroid. No mural nodule seen. No vascular on color Doppler ultrasound. 

Final diagnosis: small colloid cysts of thyroid. Could be part of multinodular process. 

Thyroid cysts are usually benign (noncancerous).

* They are often asymptomatic and are found incidentally during a physical exam or imaging study.

* In some cases, thyroid cysts can cause symptoms such as neck pain, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness.

Prognosis:

* The prognosis for multiple 4 mm cysts of the thyroid is generally good.

* Most cysts are benign and do not require treatment.

* In some cases, cysts may grow larger or cause symptoms.

* If this occurs, surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst.

Differential Diagnoses in this case include:

Colloid cyst: A colloid cyst is a benign cyst that is filled with a thick, gelatinous substance called colloid. Colloid cysts are the most common type of thyroid cyst.

* Thyroid solid nodule: A thyroid nodule is a solid mass that can develop in the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules can be benign or malignant.

* Thyroiditis: Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Thyroiditis can cause the thyroid gland to become enlarged and tender. Increased vascularity on color Doppler ultrasound. 

* Goiter: A goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland. Goiters can be caused by a number of factors, including iodine deficiency, autoimmune disease. Multiple cysts, as in this case, may enlarge or increase in number causing a goiter. 

Management:

* Most thyroid cysts, such as these, do not require treatment.

* If a cyst is causing symptoms,  may needsurgery to remove it.

* FNAC if needed 

This can help determine if the cyst is benign or cancerous.

Some additional points to consider:

* Thyroid cysts are more common in women than men.

* The risk of developing thyroid cysts increases with age.

* Thyroid cysts are often associated with other conditions, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.

* Thyroid cysts are usually benign, but they can sometimes be cancerous, especially in cases where mural nodules tend to form.

For more on this topic visit:

Thyroid sonography

Also: Thyroid ultrasound imaging