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. 2025 Jan;77(1):585-589.
doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-05212-7. Epub 2024 Nov 15.

Sub-Lingual Implantation Keratinized Epidermoid Cyst Masquerading as Plunging Ranula: Report of a Rare Case with Literature Review

Prahlada Nayaka Basavanthappa  1 , N B Nagaveni  2 , C Narayana Murthy  3 , N P Amulya  4
Affiliations

Sub-Lingual Implantation Keratinized Epidermoid Cyst Masquerading as Plunging Ranula: Report of a Rare Case with Literature Review

Prahlada Nayaka Basavanthappa et al. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Sublingual epidermoid cysts are rare benign lesions derived from ectodermal tissue, typically located beneath the tongue or the floor of the mouth. While often asymptomatic, these cysts can grow and cause discomfort or complications, making accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment crucial. We present the case of a 6-year-old Indian girl diagnosed with an implantation keratinized sublingual epidermoid cyst, initially misidentified as a plunging ranula. The cyst caused significant discomfort, prompting further investigation and treatment. A comprehensive review of cases reported in PubMed highlights the characteristics, aetiology, symptoms, diagnostic challenges, complications, treatment options, and prognosis associated with sublingual epidermoid cysts. This review contributes to the understanding of these uncommon lesions, providing insights into their management and the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Keywords: Epidermoid cyst; Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); Ranula; Sublingual; Surgical excision.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest“We, the authors hereby declare that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this paper. There have been no financial or personal relationships with other people or organizations that could inappropriately influence or bias our work. This includes, but is not limited to, patent or stock ownership, membership of a company board of directors, advisory roles, consultancy, speaker's fees, or any form of external funding. As the corresponding author, I have discussed and reviewed this policy with all co-authors, and we collectively affirm that no relevant commercial or other relationships exist.”

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