Lipoma or hemangioma: A diagnostic dilemma?

Abstract

Lipomas and hemangiomas are well-known benign lesions of the body. However, their occurrence in the oral cavity is rare. Lipoma accounts for 1-4% of benign neoplasms of mouth affecting predominantly the buccal mucosa, floor of mouth and tongue. Hemangiomas occur mostly on the lips, buccal mucosa, tongue, and palate. Lipomas when superficially placed show yellowish surface discoloration and hemangiomas usually have reddish blue to deep blue color. Here, we report an unusual case of benign tumor occurring in the buccal vestibule.

Keywords: Lipoma; mucocele; sclerotic capillary hemangioma.

Figure 1

Swelling in the right buccal vestibule

Figure 2

Panoramic radiograph revealed no loss of bone in relation to the lesion

Figure 3

Ultrasonography showing hypoechogenic areas

Figure 4

Magnetic resonance imaging showing hypointense area on the right side of mandible

Figure 5

Intraoperative photograph

Figure 6

Histopathological photomicrograph, ×10 and ×40

Figure 7

Postoperative photograph (after 6-months)