Black thyroid gland and tracheal cartilage

Abstract

A woman in her 70s with a history of chronic minocycline use presented with complaints of a non-tender posterior neck mass. A thyroid gland ultrasound showed a highly suspicious right thyroid nodule. A total thyroidectomy revealed darkened discolouration of the thyroid gland and tracheal cartilage. The pathology report showed dark brown granules representing melanin. Chronic minocycline usage is known to cause pigmentation of nails, teeth, bones and the thyroid gland. Our case highlights the importance of recognising that long-term use of minocycline can cause discolouration of the thyroid and tracheal cartilage. Current case studies do not show any adverse health effects associated with black thyroid and tracheal cartilage. For patients who are to undergo neck surgery, physicians need to be aware of this side effect, and that further intervention, such as surgical resection, may not be required.