Asymptomatic Thymic Cyst Appearing in the Neck on Valsalva: Unusual Presentation of a Rare Disease

Abstract

Thymic cysts are usually diagnosed accidentally during radiological evaluation of the chest for unrelated conditions. Symptoms appear late when the mass compresses on adjoining tissues. We report an unusual case of asymptomatic mediastinal thymic cyst which was seen in the neck whenever the patient was asked to perform Valsalva maneuver. This case is being reported for the unusual clinical presentation of a rare disease. The role of imaging in the diagnosis and common differential diagnoses are also discussed.

Thymic cyst as a differential diagnosis of a lateral cervical mass: case report and review of literature

“…1,3 Clinical signs range from a slowly enlarging asymptomatic cervical mass to a combination of stridor, hoarseness and dysphagia. 2,4 Thymic cysts can be congenital or acquired. 4 Acquired thymic cysts, unlike congenital, are multilocular and secondary to inflammation, malignancy or in association with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.…”

“…2,4 Thymic cysts can be congenital or acquired. 4 Acquired thymic cysts, unlike congenital, are multilocular and secondary to inflammation, malignancy or in association with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. 5,6 Current report is a rare case of cervical thymic cyst in a 34 year old female, describing ultrasound and CT features, intraoperative findings and histopathology.…”