Fatal asphyxia by a thyroglossal duct cyst in an adult

Thyroglossal duct cysts arise from remnants of embryonic thyroglossal duct that connects the foramen cecum at the base of the tongue to the thyroid gland. The remnants enlarge secondary to secretions from the epithelial lining. Usually, thyroglossal cysts present as non-tender masses. However, they may also become infected, produce fistulas or give hoarseness and dysphagia. Rarely, especially if the mass is located at the base of the tongue, …