A rare case of submandibular mucocele extending into the oral cavity: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Salivary mucoceles, originating from major and minor salivary glands, rarely affect the submandibular gland, accounting for just 0.6 % of its tumors and cysts. With only 18 case reports in the literature to date, their occurrence in this location is infrequent. CASE PRESENTATION: The patient is a 9-year-old male with no relevant medical history who developed progressive submandibular swelling extending into the oral cavity. CT scan confirmed a submandibular gland mucocele. Surgical treatment involved excision of the mucocele along with the submandibular and sublingual glands. The postoperative course was unremarkable. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Diagnosis presents challenges due to potential similarities with congenital and acquired lesions. Precise diagnosis relies on imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI. Distinguishing between submandibular mucoceles and plunging ranulas remains intricate based solely on imaging findings. CONCLUSIONS: This case report contributes to the limited literature available on this condition, highlighting the necessity for vigilant clinical assessment, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate management within the pediatric population.