What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Benign Lymphoepithelial Cyst of Oral Cavity
• Intraoral Lymphoepithelial Cyst
• OLC (Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst)

What is Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst? (Definition/Background Information)

• Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst (OLC) is a rare benign tumor that forms in the oral cavity (mouth). It is generally observed in young men, who are in their 4th decade of life
• No risk factors have been identified for Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst. It is thought to be an embryological remnant from the fetal growth and development phase
• A majority of these tumors cause no significant signs and symptoms and may be painless. About 50% of these well-circumscribed tumors occur on the floor of the mouth
• The treatment of choice for Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst is a complete surgical excision and removal of the tumor. The prognosis is excellent with suitable treatment and no recurrence is generally observed

Who gets Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst is usually seen in young adults, in the 30-40 age range. However, the condition may affect individuals of any age, but is uncommon in children
• There is a male preference observed, even though both genders are affected. The male-female ratio is 3:1
• All racial and ethnic groups are at risk and may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, there are no well-established risk factors for Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst development is unknown
• Some scientists believe that these tumors are abnormal tissue development remnants from the fetal growth and development stage

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst?

A majority of the tumors cause no significant signs and symptoms. However, the following features of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst may be noted:

• The tumor is present as a small (2-10 mm in size), painless, yellow-white nodule in the mouth
• These nodules are typically well-circumscribed; the surface over them is usually unremarkable
• Floor of the mouth is the frequent site of the tumor (in half of the cases); they may also occur on the tongue and soft palate of the mouth

How is Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst Diagnosed?

Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst may be diagnosed using the following tools:

• Complete physical examination (including oral exam) and evaluation of medical history
• Tissue biopsy of the affected region: A biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst?

Generally, there are no significant complications that occur due to an Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst.

• A sudden growth of the tumor may cause emotional stress, since it can be mistaken for cancer. However, it is a completely benign tumor
• In some rare cases, OLC may recur after treatment

How is Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst Treated?

The treatment of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst may include the following:

• A complete surgical excision of the tumor is the treatment of choice and is curative. The tumor does not recur on complete excision
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst be Prevented?

Currently, there are no definitive ways to prevent Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst.

What is the Prognosis of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst is generally excellent with appropriate treatment (surgery) of the condition
• These benign tumors usually do not recur on a complete surgical removal

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst:

Oral Lymphoepithelial Cyst is an uncommon tumor. It is also known as Intraoral Lymphoepithelial Cyst.