Your description sounds like something called a thyroglossal duct cyst. This is a benign finding, and shows up in some people because of a very slight, minor developmental abnormality. The thyroid gland, which exists in the front of the throat as an adult, actually begins when we are in utero higher up near the tongue. In some people, for an unknown reason, when the thyroid descends it brings a small part of tissue with it, and creates this cyst.

In most people it produces no symptoms, but is a painless lump. The cyst will often move up when the tongue is stuck out of the mouth or with swallowing. It is generally recommended that this be removed surgically, as it can become infected.

I would recommend a visit to his physician. They can do an exam, and make sure that this is a thyroglossal duct cyst (one other possibility is a benign mass called a lipoma). Then they will be able to recommend referral to an appropriate surgeon, for continued care.

I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Take care.

Edited by jcfay on May 16 2006 at 12:20 AM

---

If I have helped, then please click the ACCEPT button and leave positive feedback - Thank you, and take care

---