Rapid development of a simple ranula in a child

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Simple ranulas are typically benign, slow-growing salivary gland cysts.
• Acute enlargement of ranulas is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic and management challenges.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old girl presented with acute floor of mouth swelling, leading to airway compromise.
• Immediate nasotracheal intubation was required due to severe airway obstruction.
• Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a simple ranula necessitating urgent surgical intervention.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of a simple ranula causing acute airway compromise in a pediatric patient.
• The study reviews diagnostic and treatment strategies for ranulas presenting acutely.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for rapid, life-threatening airway obstruction from a seemingly benign condition.
• Emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion and prompt management in pediatric cases of floor of mouth swelling.