Lymphangiomas of the oral cavity: a clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and electron-microscopic study.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the demographics, treatment outcomes, histology, and basement lamina characteristics of a large series of lymphangiomas.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Forty-seven lymphangiomas of the oral cavity were evaluated microscopically and representative specimens were also evaluated immunohistochemically (IMH) and by electron microscopy (EM).

RESULTS

Patient's ages ranged from 2 to 84 years. The dorsal surface of the tongue was the most common site. Discontinuities in the basement membrane were detected with IMH and EM.

CONCLUSION

The discontinuous basement membrane may explain why sclerosing agents have not been effective as a form of treatment for lymphangioma.