Parathyroid Cysts 101: They Can Be Anywhere Even in the thyroid gland and down into the chest.
Dr.Guttler’s comments:
- Parathyroid Cysts are rare but I have seen 10 cases in my practice.
- I have treated larger ones and ones with symptoms with Ethanol ablation PEI.
- I have never treated these with surgery when an first line alternative is available in my practice.
- However, they can be hidden away in the thyroid gland or down in the chest.
- They can bleed and cause pain and tenderness.
- A large PC can even cause a hemorrhage that can bleed into the upper chest.
- Most are congenital rests of parathyroid cells that are non-functional.
- Some are cystic degeneration of a parathyroid adenoma.
- These are functional.
- Case 40 Y/O F noted a lump on self examination. 2.3 cm nodule without echos near the lower pole of the thyroid gland.
- 2 ml clear fluid was suspicious for a PC instead of a thyroid cyst.
- US of a large visible and symptomatic PC that had recurred after drainage failed.
- Parathyroid hormone in the washout fluid was positive.
- Some PCs have brown or red fluid with a previous hemorrhage.
- Even if there is compressive symptoms there is still no need for surgery.
- Simple drainage may work but not for larger PCs as they tend to rapidly refill.
- The treatment of choice is ethanol ablation PEI.
- 200 proof medical grade ethanol is used.
- This simple painless procedure takes 15-20 minutes in my office.
- No need for a hospital visit for surgery.
- Call for details at 310-393-8860 or [email protected]
- Dr.G.
Add Your Comment