A Case of Mucocele of the Submandibular Gland

Cysts of the salivary gland are non-neoplastic, localized lesions of the duct system. They form about 6% of lesions of the salivary glands. Mucoceles represent more than 70% of the salivary cysts and usually arise from minor salivary glands; however, major salivary glands, especially the sublingual glands, may also be involved. Characteristically, mucoceles consist of a soft fluctuant bluish or translucent swelling which contain mucus, varying in size. They are most commonly found on the lower lip, but may also occur on the buccal mucosa, floor of the mouth, palate, upper lip, and tongue. They are found in all age groups but are most frequent in children and young adults. There are two types of mucoceles-one in which mucus has extrav- asated into the tissues (extravasation cyst and one which is lined with epithelium (retention cyst. Recently, we experienced an unusual case of huge extravasation mucocele arising from the submandibular gland. The mucocele and submandibular gland were completely excised surgically, which were confirmed by computed tomographic scanning and histopathologic examination. (Korean J Otolaryngol 2001;44:441-4