The use of triamcinolone in thyrohyoid syndrome

Abstract

Pain that is worsened by swallowing and localised laterally between the thyroid cartilage and hyoid bone is termed thyrohyoid syndrome. Similar syndromes with other names (such as styloid syndrome) have been described based on the localisation of symptoms.1–3 It is likely that calcification or tendonitis of the hyoid bone and related muscles and ligaments are responsible for these symptoms. Microscopic evidence of degenerative changes were found in the hyoid bone that was removed surgically from a patient with hyoid syndrome.4 Calcification and formation of bone in the thyrohyoid ligament have also been reported.5 The local injection of triamcinolone acetonide has been suggested as a treatment for hyoid syndrome as well as for pain localised to the thyroid and cricoid cartilages.6,7 The relevant surgical anatomy is illustrated in Fig. 1. The thyrohyoid ligament is a broad fibroelastic membrane that extends from the thyroid cartilage to the hyoid bone. It is separated from the latter by a mucous bursa, which facilitates swallowing. Sometimes a cartilaginous nodule, called the cartilagotriticea, can be found within the lateral