Management of an Oral Ranula in a HIV positive patient: Case report

Abstract

Background: Ranula is a cyst resulting from obstruction of the major salivary gland which is a phenomenon of duct retention in the sublingual gland located at the floor of the mouth, resulting in swelling under the tongue and bluish. Ranula may occur in association with HIV. This article reports the management of ranula cases in HIV patients. Case Presentation: A 20-year-old male patient came with complaints of a lump under his tongue 1 month ago, often recurrence. The patient has a history of HIV. Extraoral examination showed a painless lump in the left submandibular region. On intraoral examination, it was found a translucent lump in the sublingual region, mobile, and painless. Diagnostic tests including OPG, thorax radiography, and MRI. Treatment was carried out by marsupialization under general anesthesia. Conlussion: Persistent chronic inflammation caused by HIV can lead to blockage of the small ducts, followed by distension that can lead to rupture of the ducts and extravasation of mucus into the surrounding tissue. The treatment was marsupialization under general anesthesia.