Lingual cyst lined by squamous epithelium

Collin M Burkart1, J Andrew Brinkman, J Paul Willging

  • 1University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, Cincinnati, OH, USA.

Insights

Congenital lingual cysts in newborns, unlike typical choristomas, were lined with squamous and respiratory epithelium, not gastrointestinal tissue. These rare anomalies were successfully treated with transoral surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Congenital Anomalies
  • Histopathology

Background:

  • Lingual choristomas and foregut duplication cysts are rare congenital anomalies.
  • They often manifest in newborns, potentially causing respiratory or feeding difficulties.
  • These cysts are typically lined by upper aerodigestive tract epithelium.

Observation:

  • Two infants presented with lingual cysts shortly after birth.
  • Histological examination revealed squamous epithelium and respiratory epithelium foci.
  • Crucially, gastrointestinal epithelium was absent, differentiating these from typical choristomas.

Findings:

  • The described lingual cysts represent a distinct histological subtype.
  • Successful surgical excision was achieved using a transoral approach.
  • This case series contributes to understanding the classification of these lesions.

Implications:

  • Accurate histological classification is vital for understanding lingual cyst development.
  • Transoral excision is a viable and effective treatment option.
  • Further research may refine the classification of congenital lingual cysts.

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