A rare case of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the lingual tonsil with cervical lymph node metastases

Abstract

Background: Although squamous cell carcinoma accounts for >90% of all oropharyngeal neoplasms, other rare neoplasms have been reported. Here, we present a case of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the lingual tonsil. Methods and results:A 66-year-old male presented with a right neck mass and right base of tongue fullness. Fine needle aspiration of the neck mass and surgical biopsy of the base of tongue lesion revealed a low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma, ultimately staged as a T4N2aM0 neoplasm. Our multi-disciplinary tumor board recommended a right mandibulotomy, partial glossectomy, radical tonsillectomy, lateral pharyngeal wall resection, selective neck dissection levels II-IV, and reconstruction with an anterior lateral thigh flap followed by adjuvant radiation. Conclusion: Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma is the most common malignant salivary gland neoplasm; however, mucoepidermoid carcinoma arising from minor salivary rests within the lingual tonsils is exceedingly rare, presenting a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma.

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the palatine tonsil: a case report and review of the literature

“…16 Another case was from lingual tonsil and the 66 year old man, presented with cervical lymphnode metastasis. 17 Another case also had been described in lingual tonsil in a 31 year old African American male.…”