RARE CASE OF CARTILAGINOUS CHORISTOMA OF THE TONGUE: CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Choristomas are proliferations of histologically normal tissue occurring in atypical anatomical locations. Cartilaginous choristomas within the oral cavity are rare, most commonly found on the tongue. Clinically, they present as firm, slow-growing, and generally asymptomatic nodules, which may be mistaken for lipomas, fibromas, or other benign soft tissue lesions. Case Report: We report the case of a 74-year-old woman presenting with a 1 × 1 cm nodule located at the junction of the dorsum and left lateral border of the tongue, with a four-year history. The lesion was managed through complete surgical excision. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a cartilaginous choristoma. Over a five-year follow-up period, based on intraoral clinical examinations included visual inspection, palpation, and assessment of tongue mobility, strength, and sensation. No recurrence was observed, the lingual musculature remained unaffected, and the patient retained full motor and sensory function of the tongue. Conclusions: Lingual cartilaginous choristomas are rare benign lesions that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of submucosal tongue nodules. Familiarity with the clinical presentation and histopathological features of this entity is essential for accurate diagnosis and management by dental professionals.