[Necrotizing sialometaplasia]

Necrotizing sialometaplasia is a benign, self-limiting disease that requires no treatment. It is often confused with malignancy, resulting in unnecessary, extensive surgery. Clinicians need to be aware of this lesion and include it in a differential diagnosis of ulcerated lesions, especially in the hard palate. Correct diagnosis depends upon histological diagnosis by a pathologist who is familiar with the characteristics of this disease. One case is presented and the total number in our department from 1985-1991 is summarized.