Ectopic Cervical Thymoma and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Coexisting Feature or a N Immunological Disease?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Ectopic cervical thymoma is often misdiagnosed as thyroid mass due to its anatomical location. Ectopic thymic tissue can be found along the entire thymic descent path during embryogenesis. Thymoma arising from the cervical region is extremely rare and has always been a diagnostic challenge. Herein we report a case of cervical thymoma masquerading as thyroid mass by radiological and cytological evaluation as it was associated with Hashimotos's thyroiditis overlying the cervical thymoma. The mass was seen extending retrosternally by CT scan and intraoperative observation of a separate mass postero lateral to the left lobe of thyroid noted. Intraoperatively there was no complication and patient had retained original voice for 5 days postoperatively. Sudden hoarseness of voice on 5 th day of postoperative period was treated with tapering oral steroids for 21 days and then with speech therapy. Patient regained her voice after 6 months.