Mantle cell lymphoma of tongue masquerading as squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

The occurrence of a malignant lesion in oral cavity raises the possibility of most commonly squamous cell carcinoma. However, there are other malignant lesions that can arise in the tongue. Lymphomas in the tongue/Waldeyer's ring can pose a diagnostic challenge. Here, we present a rare case of Mantle cell lymphoma primarily presenting as a tongue lesion with a deceptive appearance that requires a high grade of suspicion and judicious use of immunohistochemistry (IHC) to reach the diagnosis. The recognition and differentiation of this entity are important because of its aggressive clinical behavior.