Health Care Encyclopedia
| |
Mucous cystDefinition: A mucous cyst is a painless,�thin sac�on the inner surface of the lips. It contains clear fluid.
Alternative Names: Mucocele; Mucous retention cyst; Ranula; Epulis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors: Mucous cysts are common. They are painless but can be bothersome because�you are so aware of the bumps in your mouth. The cysts are thought to be caused by sucking the�lip membranes between the teeth. Mucous cysts are harmless. If left untreated, however, they can organize and form a permanent bump on the inner surface of the lip. They are called ranula when on the floor of the mouth, and epulis when on the gums.
Symptoms: - A thin, fluid-filled sac on the inside of the lip
- The sac is bluish and transparent
- The sac is painless, but bothersome
- The sac can also occur on the tongue, palate, inside the cheeks, and the floor of the mouth
Signs and tests: Your doctor can usually diagnose a mucous cyst simply by looking at it.
Treatment: A mucous cyst often can be left alone; it usually will rupture spontaneously. Opening the top of the�sac with a sterile needle will�help it go away. If the�cyst returns, it may need to be removed. To prevent infection and damage to the tissue, opening the�sac should NOT be performed at home by the parents. This should be performed by your health care provider. Oral surgeons and some dentists can easily remove the sacs if they continue to be uncomfortable.
Complications: There are usually no complications.
Calling your health care provider: If it becomes uncomfortable, have the�cyst examined by your health care provider during a routine examination.
Prevention: There is no known prevention. Avoid intentionally sucking the cheeks or lips between the teeth.
|
| Review Date: 8/23/2005
Reviewed By: John Goldenring, MD, MPH, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|  |
|
|
|
|
