Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A rare cause for a swollen palate

 

We describe the case of a 68-year-old female who was referred to the Oral Medicine Department in the Bristol Dental hospital in November 2018 regarding a mass in the hard palate. The patient was previously diagnosed with stage IV Mantle Cell Lymphoma of the upper tarsal conjunctiva in December 2014. Further investigations revealed lymphomatous deposits in other sites throughout the body. This patient underwent 6 cycles of chemotherapy followed by consolidation LACE autograph and maintenance Rituximab. Whilst Mantle Cell Lymphoma very rarely presents on the hard palate, knowledge of its clinical features and differential diagnoses is imperative in its accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

 

This case aims to raise awareness amongst clinicians about the oral presentation of MCL. Although the oral cavity is a rare site for its presentation, it is crucial that an oral examination be performed in all patients with suspected MCL to aid in diagnosis and prevent unnecessary delays and investigations.