Asia Oceania Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Biology

Asia Oceania Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Biology

Incidental Finding of Triple Ectopic Thyroid: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Document Type : Case report

Authors
Fatima Zeineddine 1, 2
Gerard El-Hajj 1, 3
Marie-Ange Hajj 1, 4
Rita Chahinian 1
1 Medical Imaging Department, Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
2 Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
3 University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
4 Saint George University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
10.22038/aojnmb.2024.75895.1532
Abstract
Ectopic thyroid tissue is a rare congenital anomaly, with the presence of three simultaneous ectopic foci being exceedingly rare. We describe a case of a totally asymptomatic 26-year-old male discovered to have triple ectopic thyroid following incidental elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Subsequent ultrasonography of the neck showed an absent thyroid gland in its conventional location. A Technetium-99m pertechnetate (Tc-99m) thyroid scan showed three distinct foci of radiotracer uptake in the upper cervical, lingual, and sublingual regions, corresponding to triple ectopic thyroid. An extensive review of the literature was conducted to provide a broader understanding and deeper insights into this uncommon condition. This case underscores the pivotal role of Technetium-99m thyroid scanning in diagnosing triple ectopic thyroid, particularly in instances where the orthotopic thyroid gland is absent. A comprehensive understanding of this rare entity is indispensable for radiologists and clinicians, enabling accurate diagnosis and informed decision-making regarding the appropriate therapeutic strategies.
Keywords
Triple ectopic thyroid
Developmental anomaly
Technetium-99m pertechnetate
Ultrasonography
Subjects
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Asia Oceania Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Biology
Volume 12, Issue 2
July 2024
Pages 179-184