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Hairy polyp of the tongue: a case report
Seyda Erdogan1, Nurdan Tunali, Tuba Canpolat
1Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Cukurova University, 01330 Adana, Turkey. seydaer@yahoo.com
Insights
This study details a rare case of a hairy polyp, a benign tumor with ectodermal and mesodermal tissues, found on the tongue of an infant. It covers the lesion
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology and Pathology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Hairy polyps, also known as dermoids, are rare benign tumors originating from ectodermal and mesodermal tissues.
- These lesions are typically found in the oro- and nasopharynx, presenting unique diagnostic challenges due to their infrequent occurrence.
Observation:
- A case report of a hairy polyp arising from the tongue of a 40-day-old infant is presented.
- The observed lesion was characterized by squamous epithelium covering a core of fibroadipose tissue, minor salivary glands, and cartilage.
Findings:
- The hairy polyp demonstrated a complex histological composition, confirming its dual ectodermal and mesodermal origin.
- Clinicopathological features, including terminology, etiology, and differential diagnosis, were analyzed for this rare presentation.
Implications:
- This case expands the known anatomical locations for hairy polyps, highlighting the tongue as a potential site.
- Understanding the clinicopathological spectrum is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of these rare congenital anomalies.
Abstract:
Hairy polyps or dermoids of the oro- and nasopharynx are benign lesions containing elements of both ectodermal and mesodermal origin. Because of its rarity, we report a case of hairy polyp arising from the tongue in a 40-day-old infant. The lesion was covered by squamous epithelium and a central core of fibroadipose tissue, minor salivary glands, and cartilage. We discuss the clinicopathological features, terminology, etiology, and differential diagnosis of this condition.

