Thorwaldt’s Cyst: Management by Combined Endoscopic Approach and Literature Review

Authors: Tawfeeq E*, Dashti G, Sheikh MA and Bastaki JM

DOI: 10.23880/ooaj-16000222

Volume 6, Issue 2

Abstract

Thornwaldt cysts occur in the midline bursa of the nasopharynx above the upper border of the superior constrictor muscle. They represent a communication between notochord remnants and the pharyngeal endoderm. It is usually asymptomatic unless an infection or obstruction occurs, then, a Thornwaldt's cyst might develop. It is relatively uncommon, with a prevalence rate of 0.2% to 4%. Due to its nonspecific symptoms, physician often misdiagnose thornwaldt cyst. It is usually diagnosed as an incidental finding on MRI. Surgical excision is the definitive treatment. This paper describes a case of thornwaldt cyst in a 39 years old gentleman presented with neck stiffness. It also includes a literature review that aids in the clinical suspicion, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of thornwald cyst.

Keywords: Thornwaldt; Tornwaldt; Cyst; Nasopharyngeal; Combined endoscopic approach

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