Persistent thyroglossal duct
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![Example of Thyroglossal duct cyst.](/Images/godic/202502/02/TDC0150.jpg")
A persistent thyroglossal duct is a usually benign medical condition in which the thyroglossal duct, a structure usually only found during embryonic development, fails to atrophy. The duct persists as a midline structure forming an open connection between the back of the tongue and the thyroid gland.This opening can lead to fluid accumulation and infection, which necessitate the removal of the duct.