Differential Diagnosis for Cystic Lesion in Submandibular Gland
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign lymphoepithelial cyst: This is a common benign cystic lesion found in the salivary glands, including the submandibular gland. It is often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mucocele: A mucocele is a mucus-containing cystic lesion that can occur in the submandibular gland due to obstruction of the salivary ducts or trauma.
- Ranula: Although more commonly associated with the sublingual gland, a ranula can extend into the submandibular region and present as a cystic lesion.
- Pleomorphic adenoma with cystic degeneration: Pleomorphic adenoma is a common benign salivary gland tumor that can undergo cystic degeneration, presenting as a cystic lesion.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant salivary gland tumor (e.g., mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma): Although less common, malignant tumors can present as cystic lesions and are critical to diagnose early due to their potential for aggressive behavior and metastasis.
- Abscess or infected cyst: An infected cyst or abscess in the submandibular gland can present as a painful cystic lesion and requires prompt antibiotic treatment or drainage to prevent complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Dermoid cyst: A rare congenital cystic lesion that can occur in the submandibular region, often containing skin, hair, or other ectodermal elements.
- First branchial cleft cyst: A rare congenital anomaly that can present as a cystic lesion in the submandibular region, often related to the first branchial cleft.
- Sjögren's syndrome-associated cysts: In patients with Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects exocrine glands, cystic lesions can occur in the salivary glands, including the submandibular gland.