An unusual complication after excision of a recurrent mucocele of the anterior lingual gland.

A case report of a recurrent mucous extravasation phenomenon in the anterior lingual gland is presented. Multiple surgical procedures were necessary to eradicate the lesion. Alginate impression material was used during one of the surgical procedures to aid in defining the margins of the lesion. A foreign-body reaction arose in the tongue as a result of residual alginate within the tissues, necessitating further surgery. The use of this technique cannot be recommended in areas where extension into surrounding tissue planes is possible.