ObjectiveTo evaluate the differential diagnosis and treatment of nonfunctional parathyroid cyst. MethodsThe data of 6 patients with nonfunctional parathyroid cyst, who underwent operation in general surgical department of China Medical University Shengjing Hospital between January 2003 and April 2013 were retrospectively analized. ResultsNo patient got definite diagnosis before operation.Preoperative diagnosis were thyroid cyst in 4 patients, neck mass in 1 patient, and thyroid cancer in 1 patient.All patients received operation, included parathyroid cystectomy in 5 patients and thyroid cancer radical resection plus parathyroid cystectomy in 1 patient.Two patients were lost to follow-up, 4 patients were followed-up for 9-24 months, average 19 months, there were no parathyroid cyst and thyroid cancer recurrence or metastasis. ConclusionsNonfunctional parathyroid cyst is true cyst, it is rare lesion in neck, and preoperative definite diagnosis rate is low.The cystectomy is a safe and effective treatment method.