Management of Macroglossia Secondary to Beckwith-Weidmann Syndrome in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is a rare genetic disorder, distinguished by the following characteristics: macrosomia, macroglossia, abdominal wall deformities such as omphalocele, visceromegaly, hemihypertrophy and elevated risk of developing tumors such as nephroblastoma or hepatoblastoma. A 2.5-year-old female patient came to the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry with a complaint of abnormally large tongue along with difficulty in swallowing and slurred speech. On clinical examination, the built of the patient was greater than normal. Intraoral examination revealed an enlarged tongue that led to the inability to close her mouth. Preliminary tests like blood tests, ECG, etc., were done before proceeding further to correct the enlarged tongue surgically under general anesthesia. The patient was intubated nasally, and a keyhole incision pattern was marked on the dorsum of the tongue at the central part. Reduction glossectomy was performed using electrocautery and the two parts were thereafter sutured with 5-0 vicryl sutures. The patient was kept under observation for one week and then discharged. Satisfactory healing was observed. Early diagnosis, close monitoring by healthcare specialists, and a thorough treatment plan that includes speech therapy, food support, and dental care can help manage the issues associated with BWS macroglossia.