If ectopic thyroid tissue is suspected, where is it most commonly found?

If ectopic thyroid tissue is suspected, where is it most commonly found?

• A. Brain
• B. Base of tongue
• C. Mediastinum
• D. Base of tongue or mediastinum

Answer: (C)

Ectopic thyroid tissue refers to thyroid tissue that is located outside of its usual anatomical position in the neck. It is most commonly found at the base of the tongue. This occurs due to the embryological development of the thyroid gland, which originates in the area of the base of the tongue and may fail to descend fully to its normal position in the neck. When ectopic thyroid tissue is suspected, the most common site is indeed at the base of the tongue. This location can be significant as it may present clinically with symptoms related to airway obstruction or difficulty swallowing, and it can also make diagnosis more complicated if not recognized. Although some uncommon cases of ectopic thyroid tissue may occur in the mediastinum or other areas, the base of the tongue remains the primary and most frequent site encountered in clinical practice. Thus, the answer highlighting the base of the tongue is accurate and reflects the typical anatomical considerations associated with this condition.

Ectopic thyroid tissue refers to thyroid tissue that is located outside of its usual anatomical position in the neck. It is most commonly found at the base of the tongue. This occurs due to the embryological development of the thyroid gland, which originates in the area of the base of the tongue and may fail to descend fully to its normal position in the neck.

When ectopic thyroid tissue is suspected, the most common site is indeed at the base of the tongue. This location can be significant as it may present clinically with symptoms related to airway obstruction or difficulty swallowing, and it can also make diagnosis more complicated if not recognized.

Although some uncommon cases of ectopic thyroid tissue may occur in the mediastinum or other areas, the base of the tongue remains the primary and most frequent site encountered in clinical practice. Thus, the answer highlighting the base of the tongue is accurate and reflects the typical anatomical considerations associated with this condition.