AN ADULT CASE OF ACUTE SUPPURATIVE THYROIDITIS CAUSED BY A PIRIFORM SINUS FISTULA

Abstract

A case of acute suppurative thyroiditis caused by a piriform sinus fistula in an adult is reported. A 31-year-old man visited a nearby physician because of a swelling in the neck and fever. He was diagnosed as subacute thyroiditis and administered steroids, however, the symptoms deteriorated. The patient was referred to the hospital, and diagnosed as acute suppurative thyroiditis based on clinical symptoms. Drainage and antibiotic regimen yielded symptomatic remission. Pharyngoesophagography performed after the inflammation subsided revealed the piriform-sinus fistula. At the operation, the fistula was removed with the bottom part of the piriform sinus. Laryngoscopy was useful in finding the fistula during the operation.