A Rare Case of a large Plunging Ranula with Cervical Extension: Imaging, Diagnosis, and Management

Abstract

A plunging ranula is a mucous extravasation cyst appearing as a swelling in the submental and submandibular regions. We describe a rare case of massive deep diving cervical ranula involving multiple tissue spaces and extending to the upper mediastinum. The unusual course of events following surgical excision of the submandibular gland is presented. A Computerized Tomography (CT) scan revealed the true extent of the lesion and its relationship to the surrounding structures. Other imaging techniques and diagnostic tests are discussed and relevant literature is reviewed.