Mucoceles of the anterior ventral surface of the tongue and the glands of Blandin–Nuhn: 5 cases

Abstract

IntroductionMucoceles are cystic diseases of the oral mucosa. The most common are ranula and mococeles of the lower lip. Blandin and Nuhn mucoceles, which develop at the ventral side of the tongue, are rare benign lesions. They are often misdiagnosed and sometimes confused with ranula. The recommended treatment is a complete surgical excision of the gland. Patients and methodsWe describe 5 clinical cases managed in service between 2009 and 2016. Clinical cases are presented in order to detail their clinical history, paraclinical and treatment. ResultsThe clinical appearance is a longitudinal swelling of the ventral surface of the tongue, parallel to the frenulum. The volume of the swelling is variable; it is normally around 30 × 10 mm. The paraclinical (ultrasound, CT, MRI, or ponction) could be performed. CT showed an cyst located on the ventral surface of the tongue, with liquid density. Blandin and Nunh mucocele were strictly anechogenic. MRI confirms the liquid content of this cyst (low T1signal, high T2signal and no post-contrast-enhanced). The resection of Blandin and Nuhn glands should respect the sublingual gland, the lingual nerve and the lingual veins in the mouth floor. ConclusionThis study demonstrates that Blandin and Nuhn mucoceles must be understood and recognised to propose complete excision of the Blandin and Nuhn gland and avoid recurrence.