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Laryngeal thyroid dystopia
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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Laryngeal dystopia of the thyroid gland, or laryngeal goiter, is an aberrant formation characterized by the fact that during morphogenesis, a part of the organ parenchyma “migrates” to nearby anatomical areas, where they begin to function with their inherent properties. Dystopic thyroid glands located in the supraglottic space originate from the thyroglossal canal and are located at the base of the tongue. Intralaryngeal dystopic thyroid glands are much less common and are usually localized in the subglottic space. It should be noted that the thyroid gland plays an important role in laryngeal pathology and is often an important factor influencing its embryonic development, and its malignant neoplasms often cause similar diseases of the larynx. Knowledge of the anatomy of the thyroid gland is necessary for surgical interventions on the larynx and proximal trachea using external access.
Diagnostics
Dystopic thyroid glands are usually round, reddish in color, and bleed easily when touched with a sharp probe. They may be confused with a malignant tumor by their appearance, so the final diagnosis is made based on a test with the absorption of iodine radionuclides ( 131 ) or technetium followed by scanning.
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Treatment of laryngeal dystopia of the thyroid gland
Treatment of laryngeal dystopia of the thyroid gland is surgical from endolaryngeal or external access. The most effective method is the use of laser surgery. Before surgery, it is necessary to make sure that the main thyroid gland is present.