A 2-year-old child presents with a midline neck mass that moves upward with swallowing and protrusion of the tongue. Ultrasound shows a well-defined cystic lesion. What is the embryological origin of this condition?
- A Remnant of the second branchial cleft
- B Remnant of the thyroglossal duct ✓
- C Remnant of the third pharyngeal pouch
- D Remnant of the first branchial arch
Correct answer: B. Remnant of the thyroglossal duct
Explanation
Thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common congenital neck mass. It arises from remnants of the thyroglossal duct, which descends from the foramen cecum at the base of the tongue to the thyroid bed. The characteristic upward movement with swallowing or tongue protrusion distinguishes it from other neck masses. Treatment is Sistrunk procedure.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.