A CASE OF TERATOMA IN THE THYROID GLAND IN AN ADULT

Abstract

We have experienced a case of teratoma of the thyroid in an adult. A 42-year-old woman was referred to the hospital because of a mass in the left side of the neck which had been pointed out at another hospital a month before. Physical examination revealed the mass occupied the left lower lobe of the thyroid. The surface of the mass was almost smooth, however, the movability was poor. CT of the neck demonstrated an iso low density area. Lower lesion of the mass showed a solid high density area. Only wall of the tumor was enhanced. Angiography demonstrated that the left common carotid artery, internal and external jugular veins were compressed by the tumor. Angiography also indicated branches from the left superior and inferior thyroid arteries which seemed to feed the tumor. Preoperatively some malignancy in the thyroid was strongly suspected. She underwent a left hemithyroidectomy. Sectioning of the gross specimen showed solid and cystic areas, and included hairs. Microscopically, the tumor had hair follicles and foreign body giant cells, and was diagnosed as benign teratoma of the thyroid. The patient remains free of diseases for seven years after the operation.