What Is a Vallecular Cyst?

Vallecular cysts are benign retention cysts of the minor salivary glands. The commonest site is the lingual surface of epiglottis. They distort the epiglottis when they increase in size and eventually fill the vallecula. Blockage of the laryngeal inlet causing severe respiratory distress is an unusual presentation.

How is a Vallecular cyst treated?

Treatment. Vallecular cysts need to be decompressed surgically. Surgery is performed endoscopically. Once the airway is secured with an endotracheal tube, the cyst is either marsupialized (widely opened) or removed using either microlaryngeal instruments or a laser.

What causes Vallecular cyst?

Vallecular cysts are retention cysts of the minor salivary glands in the vallecula and base of tongue [1]. They have been classified as ductal cysts, retention cysts, and lymphoepithelial cysts. Inflammation, irritation and trauma are the known etiology of the lesion [2].