Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Aims and background: Lingual thyroid (LT) is a rare congenital disorder caused by abnormal thyroid migration during embryonic development.This study aims to explore the prevalence and clinical characteristics of LT over two decades to improve understanding and management.Materials and methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies published between 2000 and 2023 using specific keywords related to LT.Studies were included if they provided comprehensive data on lesion size, prevalence, and symptoms.Results: About 14 studies comprising 113 cases of LT were included.The condition was more prevalent in females (69.3%) than in males (30.7%), with peak prevalence in the 21-30 age-group.Lesion sizes increased with age, with the largest lesions observed in individuals aged 51-60.Dysphagia was the most common symptom.Regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between gender and lesion size (p = 0.0128).Technetium-99m (Tc-99m) scintigraphy was identified as the preferred diagnostic method.Treatment varied from conservative management to surgical intervention.Conclusion: The LT's female predominance is noteworthy.Its peak prevalence is in young adults.The findings emphasize the importance of early detection, standardized diagnostic criteria, and personalized treatment approaches.Clinical significance: Early detection of LT is crucial in young adults to prevent complications.Female predominance and age-specific prevalence highlight the need for clinical awareness.Tc-99m scintigraphy remains the most effective diagnostic tool.Symptom progression with age and lesion growth necessitates regular monitoring.Statistically significant gender-based differences in lesion size suggest that gender may play a role in disease progression and should be considered in clinical decision-making.
Authors: Kainat Sheraz, Wahidullah Sheraz, Hadeel Sulaiman, Talha B Tariq, Mazhar Mushtaq
Language: English
Topic: Head and Neck Anomalies
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4415324412