Introduction
Hashimoto thyroiditis, also recognized as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition marked by inflammation in the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism1. Occasionally, thyroid tissue can appear in unusual locations during embryonic development, a phenomenon referred to as ectopic thyroid tissue2. Among the rarest forms of ectopic thyroid tissue is lingual thyroid, where thyroid tissue is located at the base of the tongue2. Although lingual thyroid itself is uncommon, the simultaneous presence of Hashimoto thyroiditis within lingual thyroid tissue is an even more extraordinary and puzzling phenomenon3.
In this particular case study, we explore a captivating instance of Hashimoto thyroiditis identified within a lingual thyroid and presenting as oropharyngeal mass in a young female patient. Despite the individual rarity of these conditions, the occurrence of Hashimoto thyroiditis within the lingual thyroid presents distinctive challenges concerning its diagnosis and management. Recognizing such exceptional manifestations is essential for healthcare professionals to deliver precise diagnoses, suitable treatments, and enhanced understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying autoimmune thyroid disorders.