Benign lymphoid hyperplasia of tongue base compromising the airway. Issue 2 (1st May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chow, Tam‐Lin; Kwan, Wilson Wai‐Yin
• Is Part Of: Surgical practice. Volume 26:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 131
• Page End: 132
• Publication Date: 2022-05-01
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; Operations, Surgical -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1111/1744-1633.12570
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-1625

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Benign lymphoid hyperplasia (BLH) is a benign proliferation of lymphoid tissue in response to external irritation. Although it had been described in the literature, occurrence within oral cavity is rare. Methods: We reported a severe case of tongue base BLH compromising the breathing and swallowing of the affected patient. Clinically it mimicked a neoplastic lesion. Results: The patient was successfully treated by tracheostomy, debulking excision and a course of postoperative steroid. The diagnosis was confirmed on histopathology examination. There is no disease recurrence after a follow‐up of 11 months. Conclusions: BLH of tongue base can masquerade as malignancy and rarely compromise the upper airway. Prompt reduction surgery plus postoperative steroid can affirm the diagnosis and cure the disease.