How should a mucocele be treated?

How should a mucocele be treated?

• A. Prescribe antibiotics
• B. Apply warm compresses
• C. Excise with salivary gland remnants
• D. Provide topical steroids

Answer: (C)

A mucocele is a cyst-like lesion that typically occurs in the oral cavity, often as a result of trauma or blockage of a salivary gland duct. The appropriate treatment for a mucocele is to excise it along with any remnants of the associated salivary gland. This is crucial because simply removing the mucocele's contents may lead to recurrence if the gland tissue remains intact. By performing an excision that ensures complete removal of both the mucocele and residual gland tissues, the likelihood of recurrence is minimized. This approach addresses the root of the problem, allowing for proper healing and resolution of symptoms. Other treatments, such as prescribing antibiotics or applying warm compresses, may not effectively address the underlying issue of a mucocele. While topical steroids may reduce inflammation, they do not remove the cyst or prevent future occurrences, making surgical excision the most definitive and effective treatment.

A mucocele is a cyst-like lesion that typically occurs in the oral cavity, often as a result of trauma or blockage of a salivary gland duct. The appropriate treatment for a mucocele is to excise it along with any remnants of the associated salivary gland. This is crucial because simply removing the mucocele's contents may lead to recurrence if the gland tissue remains intact.

By performing an excision that ensures complete removal of both the mucocele and residual gland tissues, the likelihood of recurrence is minimized. This approach addresses the root of the problem, allowing for proper healing and resolution of symptoms.

Other treatments, such as prescribing antibiotics or applying warm compresses, may not effectively address the underlying issue of a mucocele. While topical steroids may reduce inflammation, they do not remove the cyst or prevent future occurrences, making surgical excision the most definitive and effective treatment.