Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma as a Lateral Neck Cyst lump

Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) accounts for 80% of all thyroid malignancies. It typically manifests as a slow-growing, painless thyroid mass or a solitary nodule in the neck. However, in certain instances, PTC may present as a cystic mass in the neck without an accompanying thyroid nodule. This atypical presentation can mimic benign conditions, leading to potential delays in both diagnosis and appropriate management.

Case Report: We present a case in which the patient initially exhibited a cystic lesion in the neck, leading to an initial diagnosis of benign pathology. It was only after surgical excision of the lesion that the final diagnosis of PTC was established, uncovering the malignancy.

Conclusion: PTC may, on occasion, present as a cystic neck mass, a presentation more often associated with benign conditions. This case underscores the necessity of maintaining a high degree of clinical suspicion when evaluating patients with a solitary cystic mass in the neck, as early recognition and intervention are critical to achieving favourable outcomes.