Ectopic thyroid (mediastinal tumor) in a previously thyroidectomized patient

Abstract

Objective: To report a case of a patient with a history of total thyroidectomy, with the finding of a large mass in the mediastinum, which was confirmed as ectopic thyroid. In order to review and present information on ectopic thyroid tissue, its clinical presentation, differential diagnoses and treatment. Case details: Female patient, 66 years old, with a history of total thyroidectomy more than 10 years ago, using levothyroxine. He seeks an emergency unit with burning chest pain, lasting two minutes and radiating to the left upper limb. During the investigation, a chest pain protocol was carried out with a negative result for cardiac ischemia. Exams showed a mass in the anterior mediastinum. In subsequent investigation, the diagnosis of ectopic thyroid tissue was suspected, confirmed after surgical approach and pathological analysis. Final considerations: Ectopic thyroid can have a different clinical presentation depending on its location, and is often asymptomatic. In cases where it is located in the mediastinum, it can cause symptoms such as dyspnea, cough and obstructive symptoms. The main differential diagnosis is made with other mediastinal tumors, such as thymoma and lymphoma. Your approach will be individualized, taking into account the patient's age, symptoms and size of the mass.