Rapid Development of a Simple Ranula in a Child

Abstract

Objective:

A simple ranula is a gradually progressive, benign condition of the salivary gland. The report here describes a very rare case of a simple ranula enlarging in an acute fashion, resulting in airway obstruction.

Case Report:

A 7-year-old girl presented with swelling in the floor of the mouth, pushing the tongue upward and backward, requiring immediate nasotracheal intubation. Magnetic resonance imaging suggested a simple ranula requiring urgent surgery. The patient was followed up 4 weeks after discharge, at which time she was doing well.

Conclusion:

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case reported of a simple ranula presenting in an acute fashion, leading to airway compromise in a pediatric patient. The literature is reviewed and features of diagnosis and treatment are presented.