Bilateral presentation of necrotizing sialometaplasia--a case report

Necrotizing sialometaplasia is a benign, self-limiting condition that may clinically and microscopically closely resemble mucoepidermoid carcinoma or squamous carcinoma with the potential for extensive, inappropriate and unnecessary treatment. This paper reports a case of bilateral necrotizing sialometaplasia of the palate which resolved quickly with conservative treatment only.

The importance of necrotizing sialometaplasia is that this self-limiting condition may be mistaken for malignancy. It is important to recognize this condition to prevent unnecessary investigations and treatment being carried out.