Management of an Oral Squamous Cell Papilloma in an Unusual Maxillofacial Location: A Case Report

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, oral squamous cell papilloma is a benign, hyperplastic, exophytic proliferation characterized by a verrucous or cauliflower-like morphology, with either a sessile or pedunculated base. It is among the most common benign epithelial lesions of the oral cavity, showing a predilection for the hard and soft palate. Although human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been implicated in its pathogenesis, the precise viral role remains controversial. We describe a rare case of oral squamous cell papilloma arising in the pterygomandibular region of the right mandible - an uncommon site for this lesion. The patient presented with a localized, asymptomatic, exophytic growth that had been slowly enlarging over time. Clinical examination revealed a well-defined, nontender lesion. Excisional biopsy was performed under local anesthesia, and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of squamous papilloma, showing finger-like projections of stratified squamous epithelium with fibrovascular cores. The postoperative period was uneventful, and no recurrence was noted during follow-up. Oral squamous cell papilloma is a benign lesion with distinct histopathological features and an excellent prognosis. While it commonly affects the palate, occurrence in the pterygomandibular region is extremely rare. Awareness of such atypical presentations is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical management.