The oral mucocele is caused by rupture, presumably due to minor trauma, of a salivary gland duct with resultant spillage of mucin into the surrounding soft tissues. It is more common in children and young adults but can affect all ages. Patients frequently report the abrupt onset of a non-tender swelling that may evolve after several weeks to a pattern of recurrent rupture followed by swelling of the lesion. There are no systemic symptoms or pertinent medical correlations.
Related topic: Ranula
Oral mucocele - Oral Mucosal Lesion
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Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
K11.6 – Mucocele of salivary gland
SNOMEDCT:
235017008 – Mucocele of mouth
K11.6 – Mucocele of salivary gland
SNOMEDCT:
235017008 – Mucocele of mouth
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Varix (varicosity; venous lake) – This appears blue to purple in color but affects older adults. Most varices develop over a period of months to years, and no rupture occurs.
- Ranula
- Hemangioma – This lesion usually develops early in life with little change in size. Most will blanch with diascopy.
- Benign salivary gland tumors – This presents as a constantly enlarging nodule instead of waxing and waning in size. Such tumors are often rubbery or firm on palpation.
- Low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma – This neoplasm presents as a constantly enlarging, usually firm, mass. While it could develop in the lower lip, the posterior hard palate, soft palate, buccal mucosa and retromolar area are more common locations.
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Last Updated:03/05/2018
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Oral mucocele - Oral Mucosal Lesion