Superficial mucocele of the labial mucosa: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Superficial mucocele is considered a relatively common, uncomplicated, and truly benign oral lesion, although a systematic review of the literature revealed only 27 well-documented cases. The general dentist frequently is confronted with questions from patients regarding these often recurrent blisters. While trauma is suspected to be the cause, the etiology of these lesions is not understood clearly due to the insufficient number of reported cases; as a result, their optimal management remains in question. Insufficient knowledge of the clinical appearance and histopathologic features of this lesion may generate diagnostic confusion, leading to improper diagnosis and inadequate management. This article presents an atypical case of superficial mucocele and summarizes the findings of all previously reported cases to emphasize the variable clinical features and increase general dentists' knowledge of the clinical spectrum regarding this condition's signs and symptoms.