Mylohyoid herniation: gross and histologic evaluation with clinical correlation

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Pathology

Background:

• The mylohyoid muscle forms the floor of the mouth and separates the sublingual and submandibular spaces.
• Herniation of structures through this muscle can lead to masses in the submandibular region, requiring accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the occurrence of inferior herniation through the mylohyoid muscle.
• To histologically identify the nature of these herniating masses.
• To emphasize their significance in the differential diagnosis of submandibular masses.

Main Methods:

• A cadaveric study involving 100 individuals.
• Macroscopic examination to identify masses herniating through the mylohyoid muscle.
• Histological analysis of biopsy specimens from identified herniations.

Main Results:

• A mylohyoid muscle herniation was identified in 45% of cadavers (63 herniations in total).
• Salivary gland tissue (sublingual and submandibular) constituted the majority of herniations (92.05%).
• Inflammation, primarily sclerosing sialadenitis, was present in 73% of specimens.

Conclusions:

• Inferior herniation of salivary gland tissue through the mylohyoid muscle is a notable anatomical finding.
• These herniations should be considered in the differential diagnosis of submandibular masses.
• The presence of inflammation suggests a potential reactive or inflammatory component to these herniations.