Ranula

Ranula

☆ A ranula is a mucus-filled cyst that forms in the mouth, typically under the tongue, due to a blocked or damaged salivary gland. The term comes from the Latin word “rana,” meaning frog, because the swelling resembles the translucent belly of a frog. Ranulas are usually not painful and can sometimes resolve on their own.

☆ Causes and Types-

• Salivary Gland Damage: A ranula develops when saliva leaks from a damaged salivary gland into the surrounding tissues instead of draining into the mouth.
• Simple Ranula: A ranula that remains in the floor of the mouth under the tongue.
• Plunging Ranula: A more extensive ranula that extends down into the neck beneath the floor of the mouth.

☆ Appearance

• Ranulas appear as bluish or translucent swellings under the tongue.

☆ Treatment
Some ranulas may resolve on their own.
More persistent ranulas may require medical or surgical treatment, such as excision or marsupialization.

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