An unusual tongue base mass in an infant: Tongue base sialolipoma

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Pediatric Pathology

Background:

• Sialolipoma is a rare benign tumor originating from salivary glands, typically affecting the head and neck region.
• While common in adults, pediatric cases are exceptionally rare, with limited documentation in medical literature.

Observation:

• A 6-month-old infant presented with progressive dysphagia, reflux, and snoring.
• Physical examination revealed a significant mass at the base of the tongue.
• Surgical exploration and subsequent histological analysis confirmed the mass as a sialolipoma.

Findings:

• Histological examination identified a well-circumscribed lesion comprising mature adipose tissue with entrapped salivary gland elements.
• The findings were consistent with a sialolipoma, a rare salivary gland tumor.
• This represents the first documented instance of a sialolipoma occurring at the tongue base in a pediatric patient.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering sialolipoma in the differential diagnosis of pediatric neck masses presenting with airway or feeding difficulties.
• Early diagnosis and surgical management appear effective, with no recurrence observed at one-year follow-up.
• Further research into pediatric sialolipomas may improve understanding and management of these rare tumors.