Thyroglossal duct

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Synonyms and keywords: Ductus thyreoglossus

Overview

The thyroglossal duct is an embryological anatomical structure which forms the connection between the initial area of development of the thyroid gland and its final position.

Pathophysiology

Failure of the thyroglossal duct to atrophy leads to a persistent thyroglossal duct. The thyroid gland starts developing in the pharynx in the fetus and descends to its final position taking a path through the tongue, hyoid bone and neck muscles. The connection between its original position and its final position is the thyroglossal duct. This duct normally atrophies and closes off before birth but can remain open in some people.

Pattern of the branchial arches. I-IV branchial arches, 1-4 branchial pouches (inside) and/or pharyngeal grooves (outside)
a Tuberculum laterale
b Tuberculum impar
c Foramen cecum
d Ductus thyreoglossus
e Sinus cervicalis

References

Template:Embryology of head and neck

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