Successful Diagnosis and Surgical Management of Mucocele in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Oral mucocele is a benign lesion affecting the minor salivary glands and ducts. There are two types of mucous cyst, extravasation cyst and retention cyst. Extravasation mucoceles are more commonly seen in children and adolescence, caused by local trauma to the duct, most likely occur on lower lip. Treatment options include surgical excision, laser therapy, cryosurgery, or electrocautery. This case report describes an oral mucocele on children diagnosed and treated successfully. Case Reports: An 11-years old girl with chief complaint of painless swelling on lower lip in the past 6 months prior and gradually got bigger. Based on the clinical features, history of lip and nail-biting, calculus present at upper and lower teeth, and histopathological lab results established the diagnosis of mucocele. Discussion: Mucocele is commonly seen in the area which minor salivary glands are found. Lip and nail-biting causing destruction of the excretory duct which causes mucus to escape into adjacent tissues, followed by formation of granuloma and a pseudo-capsule. The excision of the mucocele using electrocauter eliminates the tissue scarring, the wound is nearly painless and more precision application. Education and motivation are required to prevent the patient from continuing this habit. Conclusion: One of the typical salivary gland lesions in the oral cavity is mucocele. Use of electrocauter is known to be beneficial for wound healing. Improving the lip and nail-biting habit will also reduce the recurrence of mucoceles.