Bilateral Multiple Lymphoepithelial Cysts of Palatine Tonsils

Lymphoepithelial cyst of oral cavity is a rare cystic lesion that presents as an asymptomatic submucosal mass and is usually discovered during routine dental examinations. The site most commonly affected is floor of the mouth but tonsillar involvement seems to be very rare. Multiple lymphoepithelial cysts have been reported in parotid of HIV positive patients however in oral cavity they usually present as solitary lesions. We report a case of multiple bilateral lymphoepithelial cysts of the palatine tonsils in a 72 years old male that presents with fever, pain and obstructive sleep apnea. We did not find any bilateral or multiple tonsillar lymphoepiyhelial cysts in the literature and the present paper seems to be the first report. We suggest although lymphoepithelial cysts rarely occur in the tonsils but they should be considered in differential diagnosis of adenotonsillar enlargement and related obstructive sleep apnea.

Keywords:

Palatine Tonsil , lymphoepithelial Cyst