Synovial sarcoma of the thyroid gland: an unusual finding

Abstract

Synovial sarcoma is a rare form of soft tissue sarcoma, and its prevalence is highest among adolescents and young adults. Although it is more common in the limbs, it can also occur in the viscera. We report the case of a 28-year-old woman who presented with a left-sided neck mass present for five months, accompanied by progressive dysphagia. The results of ultrasound and fine needle aspiration were suggestive of malignancy. The case was interpreted as thyroid gland neoplasm. Consequently, a total thyroidectomy with central lymph node clearance was performed. The lesion was diagnosed as synovial sarcoma using immunohistochemistry and molecular biology. Eight months later, the patient presented a local recurrence requiring new surgery. Although synovial sarcoma is rare on this site, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neck masses and a multidisciplinary approach should be taken for its proper diagnosis and treatment.