Recurrent Plunging Ranula Due to a Sublingual Ectopic Gland: A Rare Clinical Entity

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Head and Neck Pathology
• Radiology

Background:

• Ranulas are benign cystic lesions resulting from salivary mucus extravasation.
• Plunging ranulas present as neck masses, distinct from simple floor-of-mouth ranulas.
• Ectopic sublingual glands are a rare cause of plunging ranulas.

Observation:

• A case of a giant plunging ranula associated with an anatomical aberration of the sublingual gland is presented.
• The lesion presented as a significant submandibular mass with no apparent intraoral involvement.
• Differential diagnosis of cervical cystic lesions necessitates advanced imaging.

Findings:

• Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are crucial for accurate diagnosis of plunging ranulas.
• Anatomical variations, such as ectopic salivary glands, can lead to rare presentations of ranulas.
• This report details a rare instance of a giant plunging ranula linked to a sublingual gland anomaly.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging is vital for appropriate management of plunging ranulas.
• Understanding rare anatomical variations is important for surgeons treating cervical cystic masses.
• This case contributes to the literature on plunging ranulas and their management.