Congenital Ranula

Abstract

We report 2 unusual cases of congenital ranula in male Nigerian infants. Clinical examination could not discern the orifice of the submandibular duct on the affected sides, while a lower occlusal radiograph revealed no obvious calculi. Diagnosis was mainly by clinical presentation. The paper highlights possible aetiopathogenesis, clinical aspects and diagnostic features. Emphasis is laid on the need for careful evaluation of oral ranulas in order to discern their origin and provide appropriate treatment.

A Rare Case of Congenital Simple Cystic Ranula in a Neonate

“…CT scan and MRI scan are useful investigations which help to delineate the lesion and formulate a definitive diagnosis as clearly evident from this case report as well [2]. An MRI scan may be regarded as a gold standard as it not only gives high resolution images, determines precise location and content of the lesion but also enhances the differentiation of ductal atresia from duplication anomalies of ductal system [6].…”

“…The medical literature recommends observation for asymptomatic lesions as spontaneous resolution does occur in some cases. Several methods for treatment have been reported [2, 4, 5]: aspiration, cryosurgery, marsupialization, placement of silk suture in the dome of ranula, and excision of the cyst with or without sublingual gland excision. The case in focus makes a strong point for surgical excision of symptomatic congenital ranula to prevent its recurrence.…”

“…The differential diagnosis of lymphatic malformations, teratoma, dermoid cyst, and thyroglossal duct cysts was considered. But finally a diagnosis of “congenital ranula” was concluded upon clinical examination and radiological investigations [2]. The CT scan and MRI scan delineated a well-defined cystic lesion (2.65 × 1.7 × 2.21 cm) in the midline of the floor of mouth above the level of mylohyoid (Figures 2 and 3).…”

Sialodochostomy as treatment for imperforate submandibular duct: A systematic literature review and report of two cases

“…Finally, only two authors described a complete excision: Beke et al removed the cyst in its entirety, but not the sublingual gland, while Ugboko et al enucleated the cyst and excised the ipsilateral sublingual gland [16,17]. Interestingly, this last patient had previously undergone needle drainage at an outside institution that initially decompressed the cyst but ultimately led to reaccumulation.…”