Triple Ectopic Thyroid Detected on SPECT/CT

Abstract

Ectopic thyroid tissue is a rare entity of embryological aberration along the tract of descend of thyroid gland. Accurate localization and characterization are required for deciding management based on clinical features and symptoms. Ectopic thyroid in the absence of normal thyroid gland is uncommon. However, triple ectopic thyroid with absence of normal thyroid gland is very rare, with only a few cases reported previously. We present a case of triple ectopic thyroid, which appeared as single on planar 99mTc-sodium pertechnetate image, but was evident on SPECT/CT images.

Accessory Thyroid Tissue Detected Using 131I SPECT/CT Imaging

“…9,10 The utilization of hybrid thyroid scintigraphy with SPECT/CT has further allowed accurate localization of ectopic thyroid tissue with increased accuracy. 11,12 Few studies have been published in the existing literature examining the prevalence of ectopic thyroid tissue. [13][14][15] A commonly cited prevalence among existing literature has been estimated between 1 in 100,000 to 300,000 persons or 1 in 4000 to 8000 persons with thyroid disease, based on a study in 1977.…”

“…Thyroid scintigraphy is both highly sensitive and specific in differentiating normal thyroid and ectopic tissue from tissue swelling of other causes 9,10. The utilization of hybrid thyroid scintigraphy with SPECT/CT has further allowed accurate localization of ectopic thyroid tissue with increased accuracy 11,12. Few studies have been published in the existing literature examining the prevalence of ectopic thyroid tissue [13][14][15].…”