A Case of Acute Suppurative Thyroiditis in Pediatric Patient

ABSTRACT

Acute suppurative thyroiditis(AST) and thyroid abscess are uncommon in children. The remaining pyriform sinus tract with fistula is well known underlying abnormality of AST in pediatric patients. AST or thyroid abscess in children can be caused by infection through pyriform sinus fistulae which usually originate from the tip of the left pyriform sinus. The left-sided predominance of involvement and frequent recurrence are characteristic findings. We present a case history that include a left sided thyroid lesion of a 5-year-old girl and radiologic evidence of pyriform sinus fistula. The pus culture revealed the bacterial etiology as Staphylococcus epidermidis. Our discussion focused on the etiology and the management of AST and thyroid abscess in children.