Atresia of the submandibular duct orifices: an unusual cause of feeding problems and failure to thrive in an infant

Abstract

Atresia of the submandibular duct orifice is a rare developmental anomaly, which causes swelling of the duct by accumulation of saliva. The cystic mass in the floor of the mouth can cause feeding problems, which can be treated by surgical opening of the duct. We report the first Swedish case in a male infant, who had severe difficulties to feed because of bilateral swellings of the submandibular ducts caused by orifice atresia. This is the first case that has described failure to thrive because of this condition and catch up after treatment. It is important to remember that evaluation of feeding problem in an infant must include inspection of the oral cavity.