A Clinical Study of Nasolabial Cyst / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Being probably of embryonal in origin, the nasolabial cyst is relatively rare and is thought to arise either from the epithelial remnants entrapped along the lines of fusion during the development of face or from the remnants of the developing nasolacrimal duct. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical and radiological features of nasolabial cyst in order to provide basis for its correct diagnosis and treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The nine cases of nasolabial cyst which were treated in Masan Samsung Hospital from January in 1991 to April in 1997 were the used as subjects. These cases were examined according to age and sex distribution and their clinical features, radiologic and histologic findings, treatment and prognosis, were studied. RESULTS: In our study of nine cases of nasolabial cyst, more females than males were observed, and with respect to age, individuals in their Fortise were more frequently noted. Also, swelling of nasolabial fold were the most frequently observed among symptom and signs. Computerized tomography shows well-circumscribed cystic mass lateral to pyriform aperture. Seven cases underwent operation. Six cases were excised by intraoral sublabial approach, one case which forms fistula to skin was removed by transcutaneous approach. CONCLUSION: Nasolabial cyst is benign harmatomatous cyst of face. This lesion is often unrecognized or confused with other intranasal mass, other fissural and odontogenic cysts, midface infection, or swelling in the nasolabial area. Therefore careful clinical and radiologic evaluation should be considered in the differential diagnosis.