Dermoid cyst in the submandibular region: case report

Abstract

The dermoid cyst is considered a cystic malformation with a benign behavior and unusual nature. It is believed to arise from entrapment of the epithelium in the closure of the midline of the f irst and second branchial arches. Its most common location is in the midline region of the floor of the mouth, and may eventually appear in other places. Its clinical characteristics are a rubbery or pasty mass, sometimes floating, slow-growing, painless and normal in color, with variable size. Its diagnosis is made through clinical examination and complementary imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and ultrasound, however, histopathological examinations are still a fundamental tool for the definitive diagnosis. Therefore, the treatment for this lesion is total enucleation, through intraoral or extraoral access, depending on its location. The objective of this study is to describe a clinical case of a dermoid cyst located in the right submandibular region, its surgical approach, as well as the importance of imaging and histopathological examinations in its diagnosis and surgical treatment.