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Mucous cyst

Definition

A mucous cyst is a painless, thin sac on the inner surface of the lips. It contains clear fluid.

Alternative Names

Mucocele; Mucous retention cyst; Ranula; Epulis

Causes

Mucous cysts are common. They are painless but can be bothersome because you are so aware of the bumps in your mouth. The cysts are thought to be caused by sucking the lip membranes between the teeth.

Mucous cysts are harmless. If left untreated, however, they can organize and form a permanent bump on the inner surface of the lip.

They are called ranula when on the floor of the mouth, and epulis when on the gums.

The sac may form around jewelry (piercings) that has been inserted into the lips or tongue.

Symptoms

A thin, fluid-filled sac appears on the inside of the lip. The sac is bluish and clear. It is painless, but bothersome.

The sac can also occur on the tongue, palate, inside the cheeks, the floor of the mouth, or around tongue or lip piercings.

Exams and Tests

Your doctor can usually diagnose a mucous cyst simply by looking at it.

Treatment

A mucous cyst often can be left alone; it usually will rupture spontaneously. Opening the top of the sac with a sterile needle will help it go away. If the cyst returns, it may need to be removed.

To prevent infection and damage to the tissue, opening the sac should NOT be performed at home by the parents. This should be performed by your health care provider. Oral surgeons and some dentists can easily remove the sacs if they continue to be uncomfortable.

Possible Complications

There are usually no complications.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If it becomes uncomfortable, have the cyst examined by your health care provider during a routine examination.

Prevention

There is no known prevention. Avoid intentionally sucking the cheeks or lips between the teeth.

References

Kerr AR, Phelan JA. Benign lesions of the oral cavity. In: Greenberg MS, Glick M, Ship JA, eds. Berket's Oral Medicine. 11th ed. Hamilton, Canada: BC Decker Inc.; 2008: chap 6.

Maheu-Robert LF, Andrian E, Grenier D. Overview of complications secondary to tongue and lip piercings. J Can Dent Assoc. 2007; 73(4):327-331.

Review Date: 8/2/2009
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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