Lymphangioma circumscriptum in an adult: an unusual oral presentation

Lymphangioma is a benign hamartomatous tumor of lymphatic vessels. This lymphatic malformation is characterized by an abnormal proliferation of lymphatic vessels. Extra-oral lymphangiomas occur more frequently in the neck region predominantly in the posterior triangle, while intra-oral lymphangiomas are commonly seen in the tongue mainly on the dorsum surface. Various imaging modalities such as ultrasound and color Doppler are very useful in viewing the extent of the lesion. In most of the cases, surgical excision is the treatment of choice. The prognosis is good for most patients, but recurrence has also been reported in some cases, presumably because the lesion is interwoven between muscle fibers, preventing complete removal. This case report discusses the clinical features, color Doppler imaging, histopathology, and treatment of lymphangioma.