Histopathology and ultrastructural findings of pediatric sialolithiasis: a brief communication

Sialolithiasis is a condition in which the salivary gland excretory duct is obstructed due to the formation of calcareous deposits and is uncommon in children compared to adults. The treatment modalities range from a conservative approach involving hydration to a surgical approach. Though several studies have analyzed the sialolith micromorphology structures, studies on pediatric sialoliths remain scarce. This brief communication aims to describe the sialolith micromorphology to understand the mechanism of mineralization and growth of pediatric sialoliths. A 6-year-old Korean female presented with swelling under her tongue. The intraoral examination revealed a painless yellowish hard mass beneath the tongue near the Wharton’s duct which was suspected as a sialolith. After receiving the informed consent, the sialolithotomy was performed under local anesthesia. The obtained stone was analyzed through histopathology and transmission electron microscope examinations to understand the mechanism of mineralization and growth of pediatric sialolith. The micromorphology and growth processes of pediatric sialolith remain undescribed. More comprehensive microscopic studies are needed regarding their distinctive characteristics. By expanding knowledge about sialoliths micromorphology, development of new preventive, diagnostic and patient-tailored treatment methods of pediatric sialolithiasis will be enhanced.