Benign symmetric lipomatosis with lingual involvement: Case report and literature review

Abstract

Benign symmetrical lipomatosis (BSL) is a rare disorder characterized by diffuse, multiple, symmetric and non-encapsulated fat masses generally localized in the face, neck and upper trunk. An uncommon case of lingual affliction in BSL, presented with macroglossia, sleep apnea, dysphagia and dysartria is described. Bilateral partial glossectomy was performed, with an improvement in initial symptoms one year after surgery. Only seven other BSL cases with lingual involvement have been reported in the literature. This case report and literature review highlights that BSL with lingual affliction is extremely rare, almost exclusive for BSL Type I and affects predominantly middle-aged males from Mediterranean countries. Surgical treatment with unilateral or bilateral partial glossectomy usually restores normal tongue function, but most be accompanied with a postoperative follow up to assure that recurrence does not occur.

Keywords: Dysphagia; Glossectomy; Multiple symmetrical lipomatosis; Tongue diseases.