Complete thyrohyoid calcification: a case from the 18th century and literature review

Abstract

Calcifications in the thyrohyoid ligament are uncommon and usually involve triticeal cartilage. This report analyzes an uncommon thyrohyoid ossification in an individual from the 18th century. To study this ossification, an X-ray analysis was made and the measurements of the different segments of the bone were taken to compare to other cases. The radiographic images show a complete thyrohyoid ossification arising from the great horn of the hyoid with the non-clear presence of the triticeal cartilage. This form is rarely taken into account in typology studies so far, although its etiology is theorized. Different types of calcifications must be considered when clarifying terminologies, investigating their etiology, and whether they involve the triticeal cartilage. Literature review has been carried out to clarify the different types of calcifications in the thyrohyoid ligament and its terminology.