Microcystic Lymphatic Malformations of the Tongue

Abstract

Lymphatic malformations are rare malformations of the lymphatic system that occur most frequently in the first decade of life. Fifty percent of all lymphatic malformations are already obvious at the time of birth, and as many as 90% are diagnosed by the end of the second year of life owing to clinical symptoms.1 Both sexes are equally affected, and there is no predilection for any race.2 The precise pathogenesis of lymphatic malformations is still unknown.3 Increasingly, the possible influence of molecular markers on the development and growth of lymphatic malformations has been analyzed to define new approaches for the treatment of these lesions.4 Traditionally, these lesions are classified according to their histologic appearance into capillary, cavernous, and cystic lymphatic malformations.5This classification, however, was replaced by a distinct category based on the radiographic morphology into microcystic, macrocystic, and combined lymphatic malformations.6 About 60% of all lymphatic malformations are found in the head and neck region. Regarding the mouth, the tongue is most commonly affected.7,8