UNUSUAL LIP TUMORS: A CASE SERIES

Background The majority of isolated persistent lip swellings are attributed to mucoceles. However, minor salivary gland neoplasm must be included in the differential diagnosis, particularly with upper lip swellings. Benign pleomorphic adenomas are the most frequent labial mucosa neoplasm; however, other benign and malignant tumors may also develop in the lips. Objective To demonstrate the rare and unusual neoplasms that may present in this area. Methods Our 5-year retrospective review of oral pathology reports identified 8 unusual neoplasms within the labial mucosa. Clinical case note review was conducted to identify patient demographics, presenting complaints, medical and social histories, diagnoses, and treatment. Results The patients were aged from 8 to 73 years old. Clinically, all lesions were described as well-defined submucosal swellings; however, their sizes ranged from 2 mm to 15 mm. Common clinical differential diagnoses included mucocele and lipoma. The histopathologic diagnoses included 2 cases of schwannoma and 1 case each of basal cell adenoma, papillary cystadenoma, canalicular adenoma, granular cell tumor, and myxoid neurothekeoma. One malignant secretory carcinoma was also identified in a child. All lesions were excised and monitored postoperatively, with the malignant neoplasm requiring a second surgery to gain complete excision. Conclusions This review demonstrates the interesting and unusual pathologies that may arise within the labial mucosa. It highlights the importance of performing biopsy of persistent swellings in both adult and pediatric patients to confirm the diagnosis. Although rare, malignant minor salivary gland tumors can occur within labial mucosa, and early histopathological diagnosis and surgical removal can significantly improve prognosis.